Today was my grandma's funeral. I can't really go into too much of my emotions now since I need to go to bed soon and get some rest to prepare for tomorrow's trip home. But, it was nice and I think my grandma would have really liked it; it was a traditional catholic mass without some of the pomp and ceremony that usually accompanies it, though still very "catholic". My sister and I did get to sing "In the Garden" during the mass and my mom wrote and read the eulogy, which was a beautiful summary of her full life. My grandpa was very sad and his lip was constantly quivering. We were all trying to be strong for him.
The day was very nice despite the reason why were were all gathered. But the only living family members not present were Patrick and Mallory. That was pretty cool. It was neat to have everyone together remembering times with grandma. We had a traditional family dinner (cold cuts, cheese, rolls, cold salads, devilled eggs, desserts) after the service. Grandpa stayed busy with all the grandchildren and great-grandchildren around. Though he sat on the couch the whole time, people constantly buzzed by him making sure he had enough to drink and eat. We even got a nice picture of all the "grands" with grandpa. I think that will be a nice memory.
We're leaving tomorrow around 9am (or earlier) to make it back to Sanford in time to catch our noon flight. We should be back home around 1:30ish. I can't wait to see my hubby and daughter!
Showing posts with label grandma. Show all posts
Showing posts with label grandma. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Monday, September 8, 2008
Grandma's Obituary
You can see my grandma's obituary here. What sort of takes me back is realizing my grandpa lost his wife of 61 years. WOW.
We're Here!
I keep forgetting that my aunt and uncle have internet access, so I should be able to give updates during the week.
God put all of the plans for my travel down here in place with such ease and grace. My dad called me about 7:30 to tell my grandma died. I knew it was soon because she was given just merely hours on Saturday. After talking to my dad and figuring out Patrick's schedule, we thought the initial course of action was for me to drive the kids to my dad's house and then we would drive with my dad down to FL today. But, after thinking about that and talking to my mother in law, we figured it would be possible to take just Ethan, which would make the drive easier. Then, my dad suggested that why don't I just fly. You see, there is an airline that flies out of JC for real cheap down to Orlando/Sanford (north of Orlando International) and they only fly on Sun and Thurs. So, I quickly called them and asked if there was any availability. This was around 9:15am. They said there was, but they stop booking at 10. I called a friend of mine who flies with their son a lot and asked if I could borrow her travel carseat, which is a carseat and stroller built into one. She said of course and brought it to church. Patrick's mom was driving up Sun afternoon and Mallory would be cared for. All I had to do was make a rental car reservation, which went without a hitch. So, I had a flight and rental car for less than $400 which is GREAT for such a last minute flight. Since Patrick and I had to teach the preschoolers at church, I had 20 minutes to pack for me and Ethan before we had to be at church. AND so far, the only thing I've noticed I've forgotten is my brush! God is good.
Ethan was GREAT on the flight down here. I still can't get over how a 12 hour trip turns into a 1 hour and 15 minute flight. Crazy. Ethan barely slept at all yesterday, but was a trooper despite his weariness. The flight was full except for 2 seats, and one of those seats was next to me!!! Praise God! I had plenty of room to put his toys and what-nots to keep him entertained for the duration of the flight. I only checked the clock twice to see how much longer we had left. I think that was a good thing! Maneuvering through the airport with the carseat/stroller and my one carry on and purse was a BREEZE (thank you, thank you, thank you Abby!). The airport was only 60 miles from my family's house, but it took almost 2 hours to get here, between potty breaks, the grocery store, diaper changes, and feedings. AND I think we stop ed at EVERY traffic light on the way. Every time I hit a red light, I prayed for grace. :-)
Anyway, we arrived here about 7pm and Ethan was VERY glad to be released from the carseat. My mother was SOOO happy to see us both. My dad is supposed to arrive today, so Ethan and I were the first ones from her brood that she got to hug. When we arrived, there was a mass of family here which was pretty chaotic. I did get to hug my grandpa, though it was brief because of the craziness. He left shortly after I got there, which doesn't surprise me since he barley slept a wink in the last few days. Ethan was up for about an hour before I put him to bed. Actually, mom asked to put him to bed, which I think was a good balm for her. She hadn't seen E in over a month and just holding him and loving on him started a grief process for her that she hadn't been able to come to yet because of all the busy-ness of the hours after the death of a loved one. I got to talk to her for about an hour after E went to bed and it was so nice to hear her talk and learn more about grandma's final hours.
Ethan is taking a nap now and I'm in a quiet house, so I'm going to take this opportunity to spend a few minutes with God. Please pray that my grandpa will see Jesus through all of this. He doesn't feel worthy of God and wonders why Jesus would even give him a thought. Yes, he's not worthy, like all of us, and pray that he'll see God's grace as a free gift and the Jesus loves him, too. Pray that I will be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
I know this is long, but this was a nice respite for me. Writing things down makes me infuse the memories into my brain. It feels weird being here without seeing grandma. Her funeral is on Wed. Again, all I can ask is for your prayers.
God put all of the plans for my travel down here in place with such ease and grace. My dad called me about 7:30 to tell my grandma died. I knew it was soon because she was given just merely hours on Saturday. After talking to my dad and figuring out Patrick's schedule, we thought the initial course of action was for me to drive the kids to my dad's house and then we would drive with my dad down to FL today. But, after thinking about that and talking to my mother in law, we figured it would be possible to take just Ethan, which would make the drive easier. Then, my dad suggested that why don't I just fly. You see, there is an airline that flies out of JC for real cheap down to Orlando/Sanford (north of Orlando International) and they only fly on Sun and Thurs. So, I quickly called them and asked if there was any availability. This was around 9:15am. They said there was, but they stop booking at 10. I called a friend of mine who flies with their son a lot and asked if I could borrow her travel carseat, which is a carseat and stroller built into one. She said of course and brought it to church. Patrick's mom was driving up Sun afternoon and Mallory would be cared for. All I had to do was make a rental car reservation, which went without a hitch. So, I had a flight and rental car for less than $400 which is GREAT for such a last minute flight. Since Patrick and I had to teach the preschoolers at church, I had 20 minutes to pack for me and Ethan before we had to be at church. AND so far, the only thing I've noticed I've forgotten is my brush! God is good.
Ethan was GREAT on the flight down here. I still can't get over how a 12 hour trip turns into a 1 hour and 15 minute flight. Crazy. Ethan barely slept at all yesterday, but was a trooper despite his weariness. The flight was full except for 2 seats, and one of those seats was next to me!!! Praise God! I had plenty of room to put his toys and what-nots to keep him entertained for the duration of the flight. I only checked the clock twice to see how much longer we had left. I think that was a good thing! Maneuvering through the airport with the carseat/stroller and my one carry on and purse was a BREEZE (thank you, thank you, thank you Abby!). The airport was only 60 miles from my family's house, but it took almost 2 hours to get here, between potty breaks, the grocery store, diaper changes, and feedings. AND I think we stop ed at EVERY traffic light on the way. Every time I hit a red light, I prayed for grace. :-)
Anyway, we arrived here about 7pm and Ethan was VERY glad to be released from the carseat. My mother was SOOO happy to see us both. My dad is supposed to arrive today, so Ethan and I were the first ones from her brood that she got to hug. When we arrived, there was a mass of family here which was pretty chaotic. I did get to hug my grandpa, though it was brief because of the craziness. He left shortly after I got there, which doesn't surprise me since he barley slept a wink in the last few days. Ethan was up for about an hour before I put him to bed. Actually, mom asked to put him to bed, which I think was a good balm for her. She hadn't seen E in over a month and just holding him and loving on him started a grief process for her that she hadn't been able to come to yet because of all the busy-ness of the hours after the death of a loved one. I got to talk to her for about an hour after E went to bed and it was so nice to hear her talk and learn more about grandma's final hours.
Ethan is taking a nap now and I'm in a quiet house, so I'm going to take this opportunity to spend a few minutes with God. Please pray that my grandpa will see Jesus through all of this. He doesn't feel worthy of God and wonders why Jesus would even give him a thought. Yes, he's not worthy, like all of us, and pray that he'll see God's grace as a free gift and the Jesus loves him, too. Pray that I will be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
I know this is long, but this was a nice respite for me. Writing things down makes me infuse the memories into my brain. It feels weird being here without seeing grandma. Her funeral is on Wed. Again, all I can ask is for your prayers.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Plans in motion...
Grandma died at 12:15am today. I have a flight down to FL this afternoon. I'm taking Ethan. Patrick and his mom are taking care of Mallory. Please pray and I'll give you more details when I come home on Thurs.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Please pray...
I just found out from my mom this morning that my grandmother has been given days to weeks to live. Grandma has a staph infection in her blood that just can't be controlled. And if they try to control it with antibiotics, the side effects have included bleeding ulcers and blood clots, both of which are not good. My uncle, grandfater and grandmother have all decided that the best course of action is to bring her home and make her as comfortable as possible over the remainder of her life. Hospice is involved.
It's inevitable that she'll be passing very soon. I'm hoping to catch a flight down there later next week, but I was quickly reminded about Ike when I checked the weather forcast. It looks like he's going to hit FL, but I know forcasts change, especially of hurricanes. I need to use wisdom in this decision to purchase a ticket.
Anyway, please pray for my mom's family. Pray that my grandma will draw close to God in her final days. Pray that God will remove any fear she may have. Pray for grandpa, that God will show Himself evidently amidst the sorrow that is bound to come. Pray for my mom's siblings (David, Donna, Mike), that they may also see God and His goodnes in all things - even things that are dark and dim. Pray that I may get to see her again in this world. Though this is a selfish prayer, it may not be God's will so pray that I will accept it with a worshipful heart. Pray for Patrick as he will be watching the kids if (hopefully WHEN) I go. His mom is planning to come and help while I'm gone (thank you!!!).
It's inevitable that she'll be passing very soon. I'm hoping to catch a flight down there later next week, but I was quickly reminded about Ike when I checked the weather forcast. It looks like he's going to hit FL, but I know forcasts change, especially of hurricanes. I need to use wisdom in this decision to purchase a ticket.
Anyway, please pray for my mom's family. Pray that my grandma will draw close to God in her final days. Pray that God will remove any fear she may have. Pray for grandpa, that God will show Himself evidently amidst the sorrow that is bound to come. Pray for my mom's siblings (David, Donna, Mike), that they may also see God and His goodnes in all things - even things that are dark and dim. Pray that I may get to see her again in this world. Though this is a selfish prayer, it may not be God's will so pray that I will accept it with a worshipful heart. Pray for Patrick as he will be watching the kids if (hopefully WHEN) I go. His mom is planning to come and help while I'm gone (thank you!!!).
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Grandma's Frogs
My grandmother was a major crafter before arthritis claimed the use of her hands. She used to sew dolls, frogs, quilts, and many, many other things to give to others and to enjoy for herself. She made these frogs for me when I was a little girl. My grandfather made the stool for the frog to perch on. My grandma painted it.
Mallory has grown to like these little frogs and has aptly named them "Pink Frog" and "Blue Frog" respectively. She carries them around with her on certain days when her attachment to them is heightened. I try to keep them away from Ethan because the eyes are a choking hazard, but I let him play with them while I'm in his company.
Anyway, I took this pictures and sent them to my grandma for her to enjoy while recovering from her surgery. She's doing OK, by the way. They're hoping she can go home soon, though she did develop another staph infection in her blood. Luckily it's not MRSA!
Mallory has grown to like these little frogs and has aptly named them "Pink Frog" and "Blue Frog" respectively. She carries them around with her on certain days when her attachment to them is heightened. I try to keep them away from Ethan because the eyes are a choking hazard, but I let him play with them while I'm in his company.
Anyway, I took this pictures and sent them to my grandma for her to enjoy while recovering from her surgery. She's doing OK, by the way. They're hoping she can go home soon, though she did develop another staph infection in her blood. Luckily it's not MRSA!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
An update
For those of you that have been praying for my grandmother, I greatly appreciate it! She's out of the hospital now and is back in rehab, praise God! She's still having antibiotic administered twice daily for her MRSA infection, though it's much better now. My grandfather is doing well, though he's still worrying about grandma and wishes he could be with her. My mom is still down in FL trying to help prepare my grandpa's house in case my grandmother can come home in the near future. When she'll be released from rehab is still questionable, though hopefully in the some-what near future. I am planning on seeing my grandparents when Patrick and I head down to FL in October.
Anyway, my sister was a great minister to my mom, grandma and grandpa while she was down there. I think my sister is heading back today and my mom may be heading back home in the next couple of days, too, which is a blessing.
Funeral arrangements for my grandma's sister are still not made...it's a long story. But, I still don't think my grandmother knows of her sister's passing.
God is good. He is providing, like He always does.
Anyway, my sister was a great minister to my mom, grandma and grandpa while she was down there. I think my sister is heading back today and my mom may be heading back home in the next couple of days, too, which is a blessing.
Funeral arrangements for my grandma's sister are still not made...it's a long story. But, I still don't think my grandmother knows of her sister's passing.
God is good. He is providing, like He always does.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Thinking, Remembering, and Praying
My mind has been heavy with thoughts of my mom and her folks over the last few days. My grandparents are both dealing with significant life changes at this time and my mother, being 8 hours away from them, is struggling with wanting to be with them and wanting to be home. I can imagine her dilemma but I cannot yet relate.
My grandmother fell and broke her hip about 3 weeks ago. She had already been failing in health, suffering from dimensia and advanced arthritis. And because she broke her hip, or shall I say shattered it, she received a total hip replacement. After her time in the hospital, she moved into a rehab facility for therapy and care. In the meantime, my grandfather is struggling with finding his new meaning in life, since his entire life was consumed with caring for my grandmother. Now, she was being cared for and he was left at home alone to worry about her.
But, as my grandmother was recovering, she developed an infection in her wound that tested positive for MRSA, a nasty bacterial infection that can be very dangerous if not treated properly. She was admitted back into the hospital earlier this week because she kept removing her IV port. My grandpa and my mom's brother asked my mom to come down to FL to be with them since both my grandpa and grandma were struggling with...well...life. Mom is a strong one. Well, I guess I should say she gives the appearance that she's the strong one, though I know she's struggling along with them. I can't imagine. Anyway, mom arrived in Florida yesterday and she luckily beat Fay to Ocala, which Fay is pounding at the moment.
So, I get a phone call from my dad today to let me know that my grandma has been pretty depressed because she's in the hospital being treated with this horrible infection, which was hard for my mom to see because grandma actually had a good day yesterday. In addition to the stress of my grandmother's poor health, my mother found out this morning that my grandmother's dear sister, Margaret, passed away last Sunday. As of this afternoon, my grandmother still doesn't know. I know she will be greatly, greatly upset.
I've spent many of the last 24 hours thinking about my grandma, how much fun she was, and how I miss her. I haven't seen her since last July and hope and pray I get to see her again. I've also thought about my Aunt Margaret and what an amazing woman she was. She battled with polio since her mid-twenties and has been confined to a wheelchair about 3/4 of her life. She lost her son and his entire family (David and Bibiana), including her only grandchild, in a helicopter crash nearly 20 years ago. Yet, she saw the beauty of life in everything. Always postive. Always curious on how her neices and nephews and great-neices and great-nephews and great-great-neices and great-great-nephews were doing. Always willing to give a hug. I will miss her.
My sister is heading down to FL today to be with our family. I'm praying for her as she battles the affects of Fay. I wish I could be there, too, and I'm praying that God will somehow open up a door to allow me to see my grandma and grandpa soon. Oh, how I want to give them both a hug.
I'm blessed to have such a close-knit family. We feel each other's pain and wish to bear each other's burdens. We are all helping in anyway we can - some physically, some emotionally, all prayerfully.
From the last time I saw Aunt Margaret during the same trip down to FL in July '07 (and that's my mom in the pic with Mal):
My grandmother fell and broke her hip about 3 weeks ago. She had already been failing in health, suffering from dimensia and advanced arthritis. And because she broke her hip, or shall I say shattered it, she received a total hip replacement. After her time in the hospital, she moved into a rehab facility for therapy and care. In the meantime, my grandfather is struggling with finding his new meaning in life, since his entire life was consumed with caring for my grandmother. Now, she was being cared for and he was left at home alone to worry about her.
But, as my grandmother was recovering, she developed an infection in her wound that tested positive for MRSA, a nasty bacterial infection that can be very dangerous if not treated properly. She was admitted back into the hospital earlier this week because she kept removing her IV port. My grandpa and my mom's brother asked my mom to come down to FL to be with them since both my grandpa and grandma were struggling with...well...life. Mom is a strong one. Well, I guess I should say she gives the appearance that she's the strong one, though I know she's struggling along with them. I can't imagine. Anyway, mom arrived in Florida yesterday and she luckily beat Fay to Ocala, which Fay is pounding at the moment.
So, I get a phone call from my dad today to let me know that my grandma has been pretty depressed because she's in the hospital being treated with this horrible infection, which was hard for my mom to see because grandma actually had a good day yesterday. In addition to the stress of my grandmother's poor health, my mother found out this morning that my grandmother's dear sister, Margaret, passed away last Sunday. As of this afternoon, my grandmother still doesn't know. I know she will be greatly, greatly upset.
I've spent many of the last 24 hours thinking about my grandma, how much fun she was, and how I miss her. I haven't seen her since last July and hope and pray I get to see her again. I've also thought about my Aunt Margaret and what an amazing woman she was. She battled with polio since her mid-twenties and has been confined to a wheelchair about 3/4 of her life. She lost her son and his entire family (David and Bibiana), including her only grandchild, in a helicopter crash nearly 20 years ago. Yet, she saw the beauty of life in everything. Always postive. Always curious on how her neices and nephews and great-neices and great-nephews and great-great-neices and great-great-nephews were doing. Always willing to give a hug. I will miss her.
My sister is heading down to FL today to be with our family. I'm praying for her as she battles the affects of Fay. I wish I could be there, too, and I'm praying that God will somehow open up a door to allow me to see my grandma and grandpa soon. Oh, how I want to give them both a hug.
I'm blessed to have such a close-knit family. We feel each other's pain and wish to bear each other's burdens. We are all helping in anyway we can - some physically, some emotionally, all prayerfully.
From the last time I saw Grandma back in July '07
From the last time I saw Aunt Margaret during the same trip down to FL in July '07 (and that's my mom in the pic with Mal):
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