My Life - Memoirs of Edith Ernestine Kraus Shire

About This Book

This is the heartfelt memoir of Edith Ernestine Kraus Shire, born in Chicago on February 10, 1922 and delivered into this world by her beloved grandmother at home. Edith shares stories she heard about her German great-grandparents, Mama and Herr Doctor ?Shorty? Buzinous; Gramma Karoline?s immigration to the United States with four children in tow and how they were detained at Ellis Island. She remembers details described by her loved ones about her own birth and childhood.This is a woman whose life was touched by many special aunts, uncles, siblings, and neighbors. When she was 12, her world turned upside down when her adoring and wise mother, Ida, tragically died. Despite attempts to keep his family together, Ernest Kraus, Sr., Edith?s loving, alcoholic and grief-stricken father, lost his children to the courts. Edith happily recalls meeting the love of her life, Ralph Shire, and shares the story about almost losing each other before marrying. She fondly recalls the birth of their four children, the blessings of many grandchildren and how her Christian faith has sustained her all these years. This is a remarkable story of resilience, forgiveness and love.