Ode to an old friend

There was this old lady across the street when I was 11-14 years old.
And for some reason, with her, I was always doing what I was told.

She was a spritey old lady, but an old lady, nonetheless;
I'd say she was in her 60s or 70s, I guess.

Don't recall exactly how the relationship began,
but I was mowing her lawn and taking out the garbage can.

She paid pretty good ...I could never complain.
She made lemonade and sandwiches for me, even when it would rain.

Yet, it wasn't the money after a while for me.
It was what I gained in keeping her company.

I learned the attitude of respect and why manners were important;
Not that my mom didn't teach me, but this was different.

Honesty and trust are pillars in success,
while kindness and understanding should never take rest.

I would never question her motives, even when she scolded me,
because it always made sense ...especially when it came to safety.

My mom loved her -- brother, sister and dad, too.
Mrs. Lorraine Aarnegard, thank you.