Today would have been my maternal grandmother's 94'th birthday. She has been gone 15 years. Strangely, and not so strangely, I still miss her. She was an inspiration for everyone. She truly LOVED life. She lived a sheltered life, she never learned to drive a car or obtain a driver's license. When we got her out of her comfort zone, she was even more of a blast to have around.
I remember, fondly, my parents taking her on a cruise with us to celebrate my graduation from high school. She had never been anywhere like that; never done anything like that. Quite a few family members went, including my great aunt from my father's side of the family. Watching those two women have fun was hilarious...simply hilarious. My great aunt was pretty well off and had traveled extensively. But, watching her experience a cruise again for the first time through someone else was priceless. I saw my grandmother gamble for the first time (each of them got a roll of quarters; shared a slot machine; and took turns). I saw my grandmother taking dance lessons. And, she wasn't half bad! I saw my grandmother have her first alcoholic drink. And, she liked it! Talk about someone getting the giggles after a drink. Maybe that's where I get my tendencies.
I think the most amazing and funny part was watching my grandmother flirt with our waiter. He was gay, but he flirted right back with that little, old lady. And, she loved every moment of the attention. I still remember his name, after all these years...Timothy. I haven't a clue what his last name is, but I offer him a heartfelt "Thanks" for making a trip of a lifetime even better for my grandmother.
My grandmother had a lot of medical problems: heart attack in her 50's, diabetes, hepatitis, a broken hip. None of those things ended her brilliant life. She was diagnosed with cancer shortly after her broken hip. She didn't last long and we made the most of the time we knew we had left with her.
I have never heard anyone say anything negative about my grandmother. I only wish I could say the same about myself.
Polly, I know you're looking down on us from Heaven. I know you're in Heaven, because there's just no other place you'd be. You were one of the best God made. And, I know Heaven is a brighter, better place because you're there in it. With that said, I still miss you daily. We still share our stories about you. Chas is so much like you at times, and that brings a smile to my face. As mother ages, we see more and more of you coming out in her. We call her "PJ" for "Polly Junior." She likes that title.
I love you. I miss you dearly.
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