Memories of Grandma

I wanted to write down some memories of my Grandma here to save them. My husband had suggested to me that I publish this blog into a book after one year has passed since you died. I had thought to call it something like "A Year of Grief". In light of Grandpa and Grandma's deaths since you died, it seems ominous to call it that. For now, I will jot down some memories that come to mind about Grandma.

1. I recall that grandma bought me the Sister Act 2 soundtrack because I wanted it badly. I listened to it over and over and loved it. I can still hear my favorite songs from it in my head.

2. Grandma's back rubs! They were the best. We always made sure to get one at her house when we visited. It was one of the highlights of a visit to see her.

3. Sliced apples. Grandma would slice and peel apples for our snacks. I thought it was amazing that she would take the time to do that for us. She loved us dearly.

4. Frozen cheez-its! Another favorite snack at Grandma's house. She kept them in the freezer and they're best that way.

5. Grandma and Grandpa would play tag at the park with us. They were the only grandparents who would.

6. Grandma and Grandpa would take us on trips to places like Scandia, Train Town, state parks, and museums.

7. Green gum. Grandma always kept green gum in her kitchen drawer. Going home with a stick of that gum was the best.

8. Staying the night at Grandma's house meant making the bed a certain way when I woke up. I learned that early.

9. Staying the night at Grandma's house on a holiday meant that I got to make place cards for the meal.

10. I remember Grandma had a coloring book of Tom Sawyer stories. I colored the page where he convinced other kids to paint a fence.

11. One of my favorite books to look at in her house was called "Miss Jaster's Garden". It was about a hedgehog who lived in Miss Jaster's garden and blended in because she inadvertently planted flowers on his back. Miss Jaster eventually discovered the hedgehog and fed and watered him. I love to read about hedgehogs to this day.

12. Toys. Grandma had the best toys to play with. She had Barbies for me to play with, Tinkertoys, Spirograph, a foam and yarn sewing machine, a game with eggs, a fashion designer set, mr. potato head, and so much more.

Give Grandma a Hug for Me

Grandma died last night, just before Mother's Day. Ironically, the first day Dad and our Uncle have to spend without their mother alive is Mother's Day. That was not lost on me today.

My emotions went through a wide range today. At one point I felt a bit sick to my stomach. Three people in my family dead in one year. This seems crazy. Do I want to be angry with God? No. Do I wonder why this has happened? A little bit. I still maintain that deferring to His authority is obedience and what He requires from me.

Lamentations 3:22-23

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

²² The Lord’s lovingkindnesses ^[a]indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
²³ They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.

I am still comforted with a peace that passes understanding. I know that my God is in control and He cares deeply for each of His people. He knows each hurt and I do not have to worry about myself or worry about tomorrow.

I realized a while ago that I could count the time since you died in boxes of cookies and donuts and it had to stop.