Grammy - Evidence of Love

Today is my beloved, late grandmother's birthday.

The other day I was looking through my grandmother’s 4 journals. My “Grammy” was my father’s mother, and a treasured matriarch to the whole family. She and her husband, “Poppy” were very precious to me as they were/are to all of their children and grandchildren.

 Grammy passed away suddenly, shortly after I turned 8 years old. I still remember that day vividly. It was heart-breaking to all of us, yet we all took comfort in the love and legacy she left for each of us. Everyone who knew her loved her, and she loved them. They knew she loved them, as she made them feel like the most important person in her life at that moment. This is evident by the fact that there were over 900 people at her funeral. I saw it the other day, as I read through countless number of “Thank You” cards stuffed into each of her journals. Each one talked about her love, influence, service, and impact.

Grammy and Poppy at my baptism.
Just a couple of weeks before she passed.

I then found a little note that had my name on it. It said, “Hannah – loves to sing praises to Heavenly Father. Helps other people. Shows love to her family & friends and animals.”

I wept.

She knew me so well to the point that she knew my special love for animals and took the time to mention it. This means so much to me, as I want to be just like her.

At her funeral holding her favorite yellow flowers.

Family was the most important thing in the world to my grandmother. She took time and care to know everyone she came in contact with and to look for the best in them. 

I feel her love every time I think of her, because even though I can’t remember her voice or remember everything she did for me, my bond with her is as strong as it was when I was 8 years old. How does one create such a loving bond with a child, family member, friend that it lasts so long despite all the memories disappearing?

The famous picture of Grammy and my brother dancing. 

I am so grateful that my grandmother kept such detailed journals (so detailed she lists the types of flowers at the church service!) Journals are very special things. Not only do they provide a one-of-a-kind and personal view into someone’s life and heart, but it is an evidence of love. 

So take a little advice from my beloved Grammy. Share some love. Leave your family with a journal, a note, a card, and more importantly a legacy. It will impact your family and future generations forever. I promise. 

Grammy & Me. I wear that pioneer dress today.