Loss

We have sad news, but expected news. My husband's Grandmother passed away yesterday. She lived a long, good life. She was 96 years old. Our loss here on earth is heaven's gain. She was at home, and died peacefully on the sofa where she takes her daily afternoon nap. This is just how she would want it to be. I'm happy for her that she didn't have to suffer very long, and thankful for her beautiful life. I can just hear her in heaven now "Did you know my daughter K. was at the top of her class in school?" or "I know those must be good quality pants. You can tell by looking at those seams" or "Look at those white shoes...so nice and white, yes". Or, "I picked and canned a thousand jars of tomatoes while I lived on the earth, yes indeed, did my own canning every year." Manners meant a lot to her, and in our house when poor manners were abundant, we would bring out the "Mom Mom" comment. "You know, Scout, Mom Mom would be upset with you for the way you're behaving at the table...she would say such and such". Or "Mom Mom always says to do THIS at the table." She was so sharp, even until the day she died. She was still trying to do her word searches, even the night before she passed away. Up until the past year or so, Mom Mom could remember her 5 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Even with the most recent Birthday celebration, she was there, looking on, such a wonderful, comforting, presence in our lives. Recently, she even wanted to know which Birthday's were next, planning the gifts she would purchase for each person. We've all had some tears, and heavy hearts, and we won't look forward to the sadness of the funeral this weekend. My oldest daughter is especially upset. She has fond memories of conversations with Mom Mom over the years. She will certainly be missed by all of us, but the memories will continue.