I lost my grandma this past week. She was 87 and lived a beautiful, full life and touched many lives. But right now, all I can think of is how she touched mine. And I want her back. In an attempt to see things in the right perspective, I found and posted some pictures of my grandma that I love; both so I can remember those moments and so you (if you hadn't already) can meet her a little bit.
Grandma and my brother Jim. I can't even imagine how many birthdays she clocked with us, either at her or our house. She came and helped us celebrate as often as she could. As you can see, she was willing to indulge her very young at heart grandchildren by wearing a smiley face party hat. She kept it on too.
Pauline, Larry and Grandma at yet another family party at my parents' house. No occasion was too small, as long as she could hitch a ride (and she always could), she was there. Once she moved down to Glenwood, she wasn't a frequent birthday party guest, but she always timed her birthday cards to show up exactly on my birthday. And the years she didn't do that, she called. Being one of 20 grandchildren, I always felt special, and was impressed at her memory (or willingness to write things down...I could learn from that).
Me and Grandma just outside the temple the day Nate and I got married. I was so very glad she could be there with us. Grandma had written me a letter in March of that year, just kind of checking in on me, but I think she wanted to make sure my dating situation was going well. In the letter, she wrote: "Take advantage of every opportunity you feel good about as you have nothing to lose". It became the theme that year, as that was right around the time when I worked up the courage to email Nate and figured a way to get him to ask me out. I'm so glad she got to meet the result of one of those opportunities that I "felt good about".
I love my grandma. I love the presence that she was/is in my life. She is such an example of so many wonderful qualities and I feel blessed to be her granddaughter. One more thing I love: that I will see her again. :)



10 comments:
What a beautiful entry. I am sorry for your loss, but am glad you have found comfort in the knowledge you will see her again.
I am so sorry that your grandma passed away! I loved the post and especially that last picture - so sweet!
That was perfect, Liz. I've been wanting to post something on our blog but I just keep writing and deleting. Thank you for what you said. I love the pictures you included, especially the one of you at the temple. I miss Grandma too.
Great pictures, and it was nice to read your thoughts on Grandma. :)
She was amazing!!
Liz,
I loved hearing about your grandma Wanda. What a neat lady. I love how she helped give you the courage to email Nate & the picture of the two of you on your wedding day. Grandmas are special ladies. You are in my prayers. <3
What a beautiful tribute to your grandmother! I love the last picture of the two of you! Priceless! Thank you for sharing!
I echo the comments of the others who have posted: A beautiful tribute to your grandma and a gorgeous picture of you and her on your wedding day. I wish I could give you a hug...You are making me tear up!
I loved your post, especially the last line. She seems like an amazing lady, sorry for your loss.
Sending our condolences too. Love the picture of your wedding day. Very sweet.
Post a Comment