In Loving Memory

This morning my sweet Grandma Cushman passed away. I knew this day was coming but I simply could not prepare my heart. How can I truly say goodbye to such an inspirational woman? My tiny little Grandma was beautiful, intelligent, loving, playful, sassy, and fiery. She could dominate a room and wrangle a herd of children. She was a perfect example of what a Grandma should be.

My brother and I spent some time together reflecting on our memories of our Grandma. It's funny how certain insignificant little moments can be permanently etched in your memory. Later, when you recall these moments, your heart can fill with fondness and nostalgia for what originally seemed so irrelevant. For example, one summer my brother and I spent a lot of time at my Grandma's house. We were forced to watch my Grandma's daily soap operas with her. (I think it may have been All My Children or General Hospital?) Not sure, but Brian and I could both recall the storyline--some girl that was trapped in a well and something to do with an evil twin. Too funny! We laughed about how we could still remember that and it was many years ago! I remember my Grandma's yummy iced orange cookies and pasta salad. I remember playing games like Boce and croquet in the backyard. I also remember desperately trying to beat my Grandma at Rummy. My Grandma was a fanatical Bingo player and I love that she used to let me "paint" with her Bingo markers. I learned how to play pool at her house, although I have more memories of building forts underneath the pool table! I love that when I introduced Dave to the family, my Grandma took an immediate liking to him. She always sat next to him and struck up conversations. I cherish the moments that I got to share Carter with my Grandma and how he loved to smile at her. It's sad to think that I can't make any more memories with her...

To my Grandma: I love you so very much. You will always hold a very special place in my heart.