Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Remembering Our Queen Mum

Last Wednesday, my grandmother passed away. I was lucky enough to have just visited with her a couple days during my trip to the midwest the week before. So with a heavy heart, I quickly made plane reservations, turned around and went back to be with my family for the services.


The weekend was full of hugs, tears, laughter, more tears and wonderful memories. The pastor gave the opportunity to share some words and memories with everyone and although so many things ran through my head, I just wasn't in a state to share them at the time. But I wanted to express them, so here are the glimpses of rembrances that I will always hold in my heart.

Going to Grandma's suitcases. Tire Swings. Daffodils. Climbing trees. Playing scales on the piano. Hanging sheets on a clothes line. The Lord's Prayer. Monkey Bread. Breezeways.
Steak and Shake and the little creamer cups filled with tiny amounts of coffee. Ice cream trucks. Cold glasses of water in the refridgerator. Psalm 23. Twisty straws. Teeny Jello Molds. The most amazing handmade doll house. Dresser Drawers. Tissues. Little lipstick cases. Holiday dinners in the basement. Tiny dog ornaments. Putting on eyebrows. Clap On Lights. Stuffed Lion.

So many memories from my childhood, just glimpses. I will see her in so much of the world around me. And my memories are just a small part of her 91 year life. She had a fascinating life and saw so many amazing changes come to this world.

In the last few years, as her health started failing, she became more of a quiet observer at all our family events. She was always a people watcher, but I imagine her kids and grandkids were her favorite to watch. I liked to think of her as our very own Queen Mum, keeping a watchful eye over us all.

Although I knew somewhere in my head that this day would eventually come, I guess my heart would never fully be prepared for the loss of our Queen Mum, my beloved Grandmother. You were so loved by all who knew you and will be missed.




8 comments:

Rachel said...

So sorry Claire, She was a wonderful lady and I see A lot of her in you.

Chris and Mari Spiker said...

Im so sorry for your loss! Such a sweet post. She sounds wonderful. She is in a better place.

Thomas said...

Great Grandma was really nice. She always encouraged me to eat ice cream, was impressed with all my awesome baby skills, and made sure that my Mom wasn't making me wear socks that were too tight. I wish I had been around to enjoy the packages of delicious cookies she sent in the mail, the personalized socks for Christmas, newspaper & magazine clippings of interest, and greeting cards with extra little sayings handwritten on them. I'll miss her!

makaya larson said...

Such sweet words Claire its hard for me to not cry with you. I'm so sorry ....I love you

Tom Imboden said...

Love you sweetie! Dad

Kate said...

How am I just finding out you have a blog NOW????? Such sweet memories, thanks for sharing.

The Linabooty's said...

She really was Grand! luv you!

Lisa said...

I second that! There are so many amazing memories. I couldn't help but smile as you listed each one. We are truly blessed to have had a grandma like her. We will all miss her greatly and this year of firsts without her will be tough.
xoxo,
Lisa