In Honor of Granny- Oct. 6, 1916- April 1, 2008

Last night my 91 year old great grandmother, Granny- as we all affectionately called her, left us to be with the Lord. For the last year she has been in an Alzheimers care facility but my grandmother was still chiefly responsible for her care- visiting her nearly everyday, making doctors appointments, handling finances, ordering prescriptions and seeing to it that she received the best care possible. Her loss is deeply felt by the whole family. My brother and I were cared for by her many times during our upbringing and knew her very well.She was a very active part of our lives growing up. For a number of years she picked me up from school everyday so that I didn't have to attend my school's after-school childcare program- I much preferred spending that time at home with my Gran. She would listen to me practice my Violin while offering constant praise- even though I was terrible! She sewed me countless costumes and adored attending my performances. Whenever we got sick on a school day, off to Granny's house we went while my parents were at work. She always made us grilled cheese sandwiches and I will never forget exactly what kind of bread she used and how the cheese melted in our mouths. She helped care for my brother while he was in a body cast after an intense surgery many years ago and would do anything to cheer him up- including standing on the couch and clucking like a chicken or howling like a wolf, just to see him laugh!
I am so joyful in knowing that she was alive to meet her great-great grandson, Roman. When he was born two years ago she actually stayed at the hospital until he was born at 1:00 am- at 89 years old! Although she was never of sound enough mind to remember his name, she would always ask about the little blue-eyed boy and when he would be back to see her. Just two weeks ago I took him to visit her and she was so happy to play with him. He even gave her a kiss goodbye and she gave me a hug, even though she no longer recognized me (especially with my short hair).
She loved us. She cared for us. She was the matriarch of our family. And now she is with Jesus. Her body is youthful and she is touring heaven with so many loved ones that have passed on before her- including my sweet little Micah. It is strange but comforting to know that just yesterday she was here but now she is with him and knows him- more than I even had the chance to know him. In many ways I feel like I can say my goodbyes more now than when she was alive because I know she can understand now and I truly believe that she can look down and see the good and the love.And so, Granny, I love you. You have done so much for me in my life I can't even begin to express my gratitude. You are lovely and ever so kind at heart. We will miss you dearly but I am so glad you are now in heaven free from all the bonds and pains of earth. Take care of Micah for me- kiss him and hug him the way I never could. And could you tell him a little bit about me and his big brother- the little blue-eyed boy who showered you with hugs and kisses? Thank you for your sweet life. You will not be forgotten. I look forward to meeting you in heaven someday with Micah in your arms. Until then- farewell...