My Da-Da

My grandmother passed away last Friday morning. Her memorial service was this past Tuesday.

She was a remarkable woman. A lover of knowledge, truth, her family, her God, her country. Tiny yet feisty. Fiercely independent, but equally classy and ladylike to the very end.

She lived a long life and lived the last 26 years as a widow. She lived on her own for the last 26 years and she cherished her freedom and being in her own home. She spent most of her 70's and 80's serving 'little old people' (her words) through Meals on Wheels, even though several of them were younger than her. She served her family, friends and church tirelessly.

So much of who I am can be traced back to her. She encouraged me to pursue knowledge, to value my education. Even though she is from the generation in which most women did not work outside of the home, she loved that I pursued a higher degree and had a career. She also loved that I was a mom and adored my kids. Little Mister brought so many smiles to her when she was in assisted living after her hospital stay. I know that God used that boy to bring joy to her during some dark days.

She introduced me to dainty pastries, tea type sandwiches and dishes and scones.

She never forgot a birthday, even as our family grew to include grandkid spouses and great grandchildren. She kept my college mailbox full of cards and letters, always making me feel loved and remembered.

Good-bye Grandmother. You will be missed.