In both of my stories (Of the Lilin and When Life was Yellow) the main characters have a tight-knit group of family members - their aunt and their cousin.
Growing up, these ladies made such an impact on my life. The aunts I write about are a combination of my two of my aunts. One made excellent peanut butter potato candy and the other took me to church.
The cousin character in When Life was Yellow is based off my own cousin's boldness and talent.
When I write about them, it feels right. It takes me back to a very special time in my life, and I like to stay there for a while.