Jun. 23, 2006 - Tribute to my Grandmother
We got the word yesterday that my dad's mother had passed away. I think I'm still in shock. She'd recently had heart trouble, but seemed to have bounced back OK. This was most unexpected and has thrown the family into a flurry of sadness and activity
We were blessed, when we were little, to live only a short drive away from my paternal grandparents in Florida, and for several years, we saw them often. Grandpa and Grandma owned a series of houseboats, and for the years we lived in Florida, we'd often go out on the weekends and enjoy the sun and the sea breeze on thier little boat. I remember being fascinated by the smallness and efficiency of everything on thier boat--it was a perfect place for a 7 year old to play. Grandpa would sometimes let me sit on his lap and "steer" the boat, and Grandma always had ice cold soda for us to enjoy.
We often stayed overnight in thier condo, and Grandma was the perfect hostess. She always had the freezer stocked with pudding pops, and would pull out watercolors and oil paints (she was an artist) for us, and then display our artwork on her refrigerator. I can't remember her ever fussing about mess and noise, although by the time there were four of us, I'm sure we made plenty. If we stayed overnight, Grandma always let me sleep in one of her satiny nighties, and let me watch her put on her make up and curl her hair.
I have so many sweet memories of playing, eating, boating, walking, and enjoying time with my Grandma. She was one of the most sweet tempered women I have ever known, and an example of a true lady. I watched in awe as she cared for my Grandpa when he was slowly succumbing to Parkinson's. Her faithfullness and strength during that time shaped my image of what it means to be a good woman and a wonderful wife. At thier 50th wedding anniversary celebration, Grandpa's speech was unintelligable due to the disease, and so Grandma "translated" for him. How well she must have known her man, to understand his words and his heart, when the rest of us struggled to catch even a word or two that he was saying! In the last few years she got to meet her first great-grandchildren, and was always gracious and kind to us, even though I'm sure my choice in husband and lifestyle (marrying a foreigner at 19 and skipping college!) must have caused her some consternation. We did not ever hear her speaking about her faith, or if she had any, but when we sent her a large-print Bible, she wrote back a sweet and humerous note and thanked us kindly. I was so relieved that she didn't take offense! A few months ago she sent me some embroidered dish towels that had been given to her at her bridal shower, and just last week I recieved a thank-you note from her for the mother's day card I'd sent. Ever the lady, she couldn't let even such a small thing pass without grateful acknowledgement. I only wish I'd given her a call when I recieved her note. Instead I let it sit on the table, and missed my last chance to speak with her and say "I love you". I'm afraid I have missed many chances, being so busy and self-involved, to express my appreciation for her. I wish I had told her everything I'd written now. She should have known what an impact her beautiful example had on me.
I will miss you, Grandma Trudy! It is my dearest hope that you are now walking with the Savior in Glory!
Comments
Jun. 23, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
I'm so sorry Maggie. What a blessing she must have been to you and to your family. I'm sure she would be pleased to know how much she meant to you.
Sandy (from crosswalk =) )
Jun. 23, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Titus2woman
So sorry for your loss. I enjoyed reading your family memories so much! (((((HUGS))))) sandi
Jun. 23, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Lilyofthevalley4
I'm so sorry, Maggie. May the Lord comfort you all. Treasure the happy memories you have, sounds like you had many enjoyable times together. :)
(((((HUGS)))))
Jun. 24, 2006 - Hugs to you
Posted by homeskoolmom
How hard it can be to lose someone you love, but someone that you were that involved with is very difficult. Saying prayers for you and the family.
With Love,
Christine
Jun. 24, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by teena6
came to your blog from joyinthemorning blogs~ I am so sorry to hear about your grandmother. My grandmother died in 1998 and she was very dear to me... I have such special memories of her and know you do too! What a wonderful tribute to her.
may God give you His strength and comfort now~
