Remembering Blanche Marie Harward

I got the call from Mom last night letting me know that Grandma Blanche wasn't expected to make it through the night. Then this morning, I opened up facebook and saw Janette's status verifying the fact that Grandma had died during the night. I ran downstairs to check my phone. Sure enough, there was the message from Mom waiting for me. Why did I leave my ringer off & not bring the phone to bed with me?? I turned on the ringer, listened to the message, saved it and then pondered if it was too early to call Mom. Well, she must have heard me thinking because she called me not 2 minutes later.

I'm feeling sad & happy at the same time. I've already cried off & on this morning. I am happy that Grandma was allowed to go. She has been separated from her only son and husband for many years. Dad died almost 16 years ago and Grandpa Neal has been gone for almost 9. I know there was much rejoicing on the other side when those two great men were there to welcome her home. I almost envy her because I'd love to be able to give my daddy a hug. I'm sad to know that I will never see her again during this life. I have some regret that I wasn't better at calling, writing, & visiting her regularly. But, I will remember all the fun times that I had with my Grandma.

The sleepovers - she never told me no if I asked to come over.

The "parties" - a tupperware cup full of peanuts & m&ms while I watched tv.

The many crafts - she always had some cool craft for us to make she was so talented with her hands.

Christmas - oh how Grandma loved Christmas! I can picture her little tree set up on her table with all the fabulously wrapped presents. And how she creatively wrapped us each our bag of m&m's - you really could never guess which gift held them.

The 16th Birthday Dollars - Her creativity was shown once again. I need to find my picture.

The list could go on and on.

Grandma, I will miss you, but I am greatful for the ways you influenced me in my life.