Grandma

Growing up, she was a refuge to me and each of my brothers. We went to her for wisdom, solace, coke, and candy. We each had a bond with her that was unique and individual. She was sarcastic and hilarious with me, understanding and accepting with Nathan, and compassionate and spiritually deep with Edward. She and Grandpa lived around the corner from us for our entire childhoods. It was a milestone for me when I was old enough to walk to grandma's by myself. We spend many hours together playing card games, doing puzzles, and watching sports.

One distinct memory I have was when I was in 1st grade learning to read. I went to grandma's after school and she was quilting. I stretched out on the orange floral sectional and started reading my book out loud to her. I had trouble with just about every 3rd word so I would stop and ask her what the word was. She would graciously tell me and I continued to hobble through the book that way. It must have been excruciating to listen to and impossible to get any quilting done. But she never gave any indication that she was bothered by any part of the experience. I remember feeling so accomplished when I finished that book and so grateful for her help. I turned an important corner that day in my struggle to learn to read.

Another important milestone was when Nathan was tall enough to reach the latch to grandma's back gate. It meant we could go through the backyard instead of having to trek all the way around to the front door. We were so proud of ourselves when we didn't need mom to get us in the "back way". We almost always showed up without warning and were never turned away. I always got a burst of joy in my heart when Grandma's face lit up and she hurried to the sliding door to welcome us in. 

My grandma loves as perfectly as a human can love and does so with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength. When we all get to heaven, I hope I get to live around the corner from her forever.