I Remember Grandma

My Grandmother helped bring me to the Northwest when I was ten days old and my Mother was on her way north, leaving my father. My three-year-old brother was with us, too.

I don't remember that, of course, but I do remember my Grandma quite fondly. She was my kindred spirit. I think I held her in high esteem, much like a guardian angel. I was only 17 when I lost her.

As a child my health was not the best. I stayed with Grandma sometimes (actually a lot) and she made me tea in a beautiful cup with dry toast to settle my stomach. It seemed to help. I still remember how safe and valued I felt. Today, whenever I need a "fix" in this stressful world, it's still a cup of tea just like Grandma made me. Perhaps she is still with me when I drink today's cup of tea.

I didn't know until Grandpa died and I was older that he was an alcoholic. I have memories of him drinking out of a tea cup, pouring a bit from the cup to the saucer before he drank it out of the saucer. I remember his deep, baritone voice and his banjo-picking as we all gathered to sing hymns when we got together. I wonder how Grandma sheltered me from his alcoholism. I never knew. I just thought Grandpa was quiet.

How many of you have or have had a wonderful relationship with a grandparent? It's about the best there is in life. My Grandma was a grandma in the strictest, sweetest sense, and I loved her. She didn't judge me, she helped me feel better, and she let me come visit when I needed away from my life, even when I was little. She protected me.

I remember sitting at her mangle (she took in ironing work) and watching her iron away for hours on sheets, dresser scarves, doilies, etc. It was really exciting when she let me have a turn. I felt so grown up!

My Dad remembers her chicken and dumplings. He said it was the best. I remember going to her house and all her pretty dishes were on the table. I remember her lasagne. I remember her beautiful teacup collection, which my uncle now has.

My Grandma moved away when I was little and we went to visit her (Washington to Colorado) in the summers. When I was 16 and on a visit, she had the same magic she had when I was little. I felt so special. I wanted to stay with her forever. My Mother's answer, "How can she afford that? You'd better get a job if you want to live with her."

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