Wednesday, September 2, 2009

My grandma died yesterday (m)

She was 91 years old. I had a long, lovely relationship with her. When I was growing up living in Nebraska, every year, we would camp for two weeks in Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, etc., and then spend a week at my grandparents in Utah. I remember having water fights with my grandpa in the back yard, and my grandma bringing us out vanilla ice cream in plastic cups afterwards. I remember my grandma being able to fall asleep anywhere and her snoring, and then her always saying that she wasn't asleep. I remember her giving me the complete set of Trixie Belden books one summer.

One year, when I was 13, my parents let me fly out by myself and stay for a month before they came out. My grandma took me to lots of plays, including As You Like It in a local Shakespeare In The Park show. She loved acting, and did acting in the area up until she was in her 70s

When I was older, and living in Utah, my sister and I spent one summer living with my grandparents. I remember going down to the basement at night to watch the news and cool off and crochet. Lots of crocheting.

My grandpa died shortly after Mr. Simple and I got engaged. But my grandma flew out to be with me when we got married. One of my favorite pictures from that day is one of her and I standing together. Here it is:

August 1995 - Me and my Grandma

We went out to visit a few times over the years. She got to meet all of the children. Our most recent visit was in 2006. I remember going to her house and it seeming so different. But it really wasn't. I'd just grown up.

I have a picture somewhere from that day of all the Beth's - my grandma's first name is Beth, and my mom's first name is Beth (but she goes by her middle name) and Jelly Bean's middle name is Beth.

My grandparents had 7 children, and my mom is the oldest child. I am the oldest female grandchild. Grandma Beth was my only living grandparent. I was so lucky to have so many experiences with her.

She took a turn for the worst suddenly this afternoon. My dad left a message at 7:05 pm saying that she had gotten ill, and that they didn't expect her to live more than 24 hours. By the time my dad called my sister at 7:10 pm, she had died.

I love you Grandma. Rest In Peace.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Such a lovely tribute! We love you Grandma!!!!! You will be missed! God be with you till we meet again! I will have to copy you and do the same. I LOVE Grandma!!!!

corn fed girl said...

awww, I'm sorry to hear that. Sounds like she was a wonderful Grandma.

Unknown said...

I am sooo sorry. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Normal Mom said...

My heart goes out to you. It's such a bittersweet thing when you know they've lived long, good lives, but you wish that they could stay around just a little longer. Thankfully you have lots of wonderful memories of your relationship.
Let me know if you need anything.

Stacey said...

So sorry. Grandparents are the best! I only have 1 grandparent left but I have only happy memories of all my grandparents. So happy you have such great memories-love the photo of the 2 of you on your wedding day!