It's hard to believe that one year ago today, my darling grandmother died.
I count it among my greatest blessings that I was able to be with her at the end, even though she was not conscious. It was wonderful to be surrounded by so many family members who all loved her so much, and I am glad I was able to say goodbye to the woman who was so influential in my life.
And to hear the sweetest goodbye that her sweetheart offered.
Today I looked through the pictures I took at the hospice and during the funeral preparations. I decided that those were too sad. I prefer to remember her as she was right up until the end: vibrant, witty, unselfish, supportive, loving, refined.Denise had the brilliant idea of marking this occasion by doing something that Grandma would have done: baking and then taking the goods to someone who could use a lift. I made her buttermilk bread (for the first time), and I will be delivering it tomorrow morning to the women that I visit teach, along with some Conference note-taking sheets.
My mom sent several of us a package, to be opened today, in remembrance of Grandma.
I think it's just perfect. I hung it up today above my kitchen window. Even though I think of Grandma often (maybe even more often now that she's not with us), I don't think I can have too many reminders.Tonight when I got in the car, instrumental jazz was on. Normally, I would hurriedly switch the channel. But tonight, I left it on and just remembered how much she loved it.
I thought I might even do some ironing today. But then I thought, let's not get crazy...
Today was a happy day. I love remembering CJP, and how blessed I am to be a part of her family, and to be the recipient of her tutelage. Besides, I know she would want us to be happy.
p.s. Tomorrow starts General Conference weekend, one of my two favorite weekends of the year! www.sugardoodle.net has a bunch of printable packets for kids, an awesome packet for youth, and even a great page for adults taking notes (packet #10)! Now, off to mix up some of CJP's doughnut dough...
12 comments:
Well Michelle, I had made it through the entire day without crying until now. Your grandmother, she was an amazing lady. I thought of all of us that were serving in her honor today. Can you imagine leaving such a legacy?
That print! I love it. Maybe I should beg your mother for one. :)
What a lovely tribute to your grandmother. I think it is great that you were all baking for someone else in her honor. Would you mind posting the buttermilk bread recipe? I'd love to try it.
Perfectly remembered. I've been missing mom so much the past few weeks, but like you, have no regrets and nothing but joy in my heart for having known such a woman. Ah, to be more like her...
And anyone who might want one of the "I like Cake" signs, can email me for the price and I can get more! I just couldn't resist...it speaks volumes about my memories of my mother.
It's as if that sign was made for your family.
I enjoyed getting to know your grandmother through your posts. She was truly an elect lady.
Love it.
Those pictures of her death bed, as it were, still make me weep.
Those days are some of the most tender memories I hold, and I too count it as one of my greatest blessings that I was present.
I'm still envious of the photos you take. I have a few from my dad's funeral that I love but not because they are any good.
This was such a great way to honor your Grandmother! I'm glad it was a happy day.
Thinking of you. I love the gift your mom gave you. I just had the 2nd anniversary of my grandpa dying and I remember so vividly how it rocked my world.
Love you Shell.
I love that we all were baking and serving together on Friday. And I love where you placed your I Like Cake print. What a sweet remembrance of Grandma!
Still laughing at "Let's not get crazy!" and anxious to hear how your donuts turned out.
I can't believe it has been a year already. It is still comforting that you were all there with her when she went. I'm so glad you were given that blessing to be there and that you don't have to have any sadness about missing it.
I think the "I like cake" sign is darling, a sweet tribute and so cute over your window.
What a fitting tribute! You have such a wonderful family. I hope I can achieve a bond of womanhood like this in my own family, with my daughters.
xo
I love this post. I can't believe it's been a year, and I've found several moments when I feel close to her. I love the sign and placed mine where I can see it often. It's just perfect.
Post a Comment