As there was such a big age gap between Joan and myself. We were unable to make any childhood memories. But in later life we became very close and made some lovely memories making up for lost time.  One memory that comes to mind, is when she came to ours with a case of fine wine and her partner in crime for their annual visit, plus 4 beautiful wine glasses.  We were celebrating the Queens Jubilee on this occasion.  Sandwiches, Cakes, Pimm's, Fine Wine, were the order of the day.  All outside in the lovely weather and getting a little tipsy.  Then the 4 lovely glasses were reduced to 3!!! clumsy me had knocked one over breaking the stem.  So, to my defence Joan made up all kinds of excuses as to why it wasn't my fault, she certainly wasn't going to let her little brother get told off. 
Although my childhood memories are very scarce, we still had this bond that she was my big sister, and I was her little brother. 
 
 
To live in the heart of those you loved is not to die.
 
Stephen & Cindy.