Beautiful Soul

Many of us have that special Nana or Papa in our lives that enrich us and that we cherish like no other. When I was little my Grandpa was my most favorite relative. We visited often and spent lots of time building things. With him, I could do anything. When I was seven he passed away and life at that age was different, but the idea or feelings behind such a loss at a young age are different than that of an adult. I missed him so much and couldn't understand why he wasn't coming back or wouldn't be with Grandma when we visited. Over time, that loss changed and grew into other aspects of my life. I started to miss him at big events, graduation, sports, and dances. Even to this day, I was missing him when I got married, had my two boys, and now just in every day life.

My Grandma and I had become closer over the years and she has always been in my life no matter where we moved or traveled to. She is a kind and gentle soul. I see my Grandpa in her all the time. They loved to travel and experience life! I have so many memories of sitting and talking about my life plans or ideas or even career paths to my Grandma. She has lived a full life and managed to stick around to age 90, just about to 91! There are some medical concerns for her and she has had quiet the time going in and out of the hospital lately, but I am starting to see life differently, as if she is teaching me a lesson.

I realize that life is precious and can be quickly taken in a heart beat. I also see a woman with a mind as sharp as a 50 year old trapped in a body that is seemingly falling apart. My heart hurts for her for that reason. I can only imagine how that must feel. You want so badly to go to do something but you just cant. This woman has been such an icon in our lives and here she is, relying on all of us, to maintain her and keep her well. I want her to know that I value her life, love, and heart. She believes in doing what you feel is right and believing in yourself no matter what. She exemplifies, what I feel, is the ideal friend, wife, and mother. I'm not ready to lose her. I never will be. None of us are.

I want to thank her for being there. I want to thank her for loving me and taking care of me and my mom when we needed it the most. The three of us have had quite a trip and a hysterical one at that. I only hope that she can get better, there is so much more to see and do in this life. Her grand kids love her and we love her that life would not be the same, but it would be enriched with the knowledge that she has given us over our lifetimes. I love you Grandma, I hope and pray that you get better soon and that you get to do the things you want before you leave us. Thank you for all that you have done for me, sometimes I feel as though I don't deserve it all, but it is greatly appreciated. I hope you know that.

Love You Dearly! Well, we all do!