I lost my grandmother today, but I know she’s in heaven with Jesus and with her husband who went ahead of her over 40 yrs ago. Grammie lived a full and very long life. She would have celebrated her 99th birthday in July.

She was so much more than my grandmother….she was a lover of children, a witty woman who didn’t lose that sense of humor clear to the end. She was fiercely loyal to family and friends and known to everyone who loved her, as Grammie. She attended the small church in Lyle, Wa., for many years, where she and her husband moved (from Eastern Oregon) when just a few years before he passed away.

The picture at the top was taken just a few months ago with the kitty that resides at the home where she stayed. Her mind was sharp and she was still getting around in a wheelchair when a small stroke hit a couple of weeks ago. God was so merciful that He allowed her to slip into a gentle sleep in the small hours of this morning and she simply went on to be with Him.

I’m grateful for the many years I had with my grandmother….so many more than a lot of adults my age (I’m over 50 myself) ever get to experience. My grown kids knew her well, and she’s seen great-grandchildren come into the world, as well. I’m celebrating her life today and cherishing the precious memories of a wonderful woman who loved me.