Do you have godchildren? It was customary when my husband and I were born, mid-twentieth century, to acquire them. Having godchildren and keeping in touch can be so much fun, a form of extended family.

My godmother was Aunt Dorothy (Dot), who lived just a mile away, a great stopover spot after school. We played gin rummy at the kitchen table while she fashioned some delicious supper or dessert. My godfather was also my grandfather, Joseph Roell, who lived with his two daughters in Minneapolis. I spent a lot of time with them. Each is lovingly etched in my memory.

From good friends in the 1980s...