Thursday, November 05, 2009

My Grandma

My Grandma (dad's mom) died last Monday, October 25th. Even though she was 96 years old, we were all surprised when she passed. She went to sleep one afternoon and didn't wake up. We should all be so fortunate to die that way.

She was the youngest of 17 brothers and sisters; all have passed on. She also lost her husband before I was ever born, and her only daughter in the early 80s. My dad was her only (living) child, and my brothers and I were the only grandkids. I imagine there was a very large, happy family reunion when she passed.

Almost the whole family was able to get together for her funeral. It was a really nice, but strange experience. The funeral was on Halloween. A few of us thought that was odd, but Dad said that she wouldn't mind and seeing as how chocolate was her favorite food, I enjoyed some for her on that treat day.

That night a few of my TEENAGED nieces and nephews all decided they should go trick or treating together and I could tag along as their chaperone. I wish I had a pic--they were too funny. No neighbors complained that they were too old and they sure hauled in the loot.

It was a quick exhausting trip, but so worth it. We all had fun together and remembered lots about Grandma. One of my favorite things about her was that when she was in her late 60s/early 70s she drove a Camero. It was my Aunt's car, and when she died my Grandma decided to drive it. She was cool. She also knew her way around a can of Spam. Ha! And Wyatts Cafeteria. And Kmart. She taught me how to play all kinds of crazy card games and dominoes. She always told me I was beautiful and smart. She always wanted to be a teacher--so she was extra proud that she had lots of teachers in the family.

Miss you, Grandma. See you on the other side!

3 comments:

Chelsea B. said...

It was a very awkward day, indeed.

Did grandma ever tell you the time her parents left her on a train and she went like miles and miles away?

And about the TEENAGED nieces and nephew- I have a few pics up of our costumes. I think Mel uploaded some too, in her "mobile pics" album or whatever on FB.

You forgot to add in how you hid between those cars and made us jump out of our skins!

Karla said...

I am sorry for your loss.

Chris said...

Carolyn, I was out of town and didn't hear about your grandmother until later so sadly, I missed the funeral and seeing everyone. I know no one is getting out of this world alive, but I am also sad she is gone. I just thought she would live forever! We recently buried my daddy-in-law who, like your grandma, lived a full and wonderful life. Aren't we lucky to have the families we have? Miss you.