This past week heaven received a very special angel. My grandmother passed away. She, along with my grandfather left an amazing legacy. I could quite possibly write you a book with all of the amazing stories they had to tell, along with stories others could share about them. However, since this is just a blog, I am just going to share a few personal ways that they touched my life.

My grandparents lived up the hill from me while I was growing up. My parents both worked, so I spent most of my time after school at their house. I remember things like watching Perry Mason with my grandpa during the noon hour on their little black and white TV in the kitchen. My grandpa had built their home, and had made a custom table for the kitchen area. It had a bench seat, and the table, although attached to the wall, moved in and out. I have fond memories of eating at “Faye’s Greasy Spoon Restaurant”. She always made sure we had some sort of flavored soda, cereal, and ice cream. When I was about 10 years old, she went through brain surgery. I remember being so worried about her. Her hair had fallen out (or shaved?) and so she had a lot of wigs. My cousin and I would put those wigs on and her silky nightgowns (circa 1980 something) and parade around the living room. Years later, when they sold that house, my cousin and I would hide the for sale sign from their front window, because we didn’t want them to sell it. I even tried to buy the home as an adult, but my house didn’t sell in time.

My grandparents were born before the depression. They married young, and neither had much of an education. However, they were determined to be successful. My grandpa worked construction. He’d get books from the library and read up on what he was supposed to be doing the next day. Eventually, they purchased property and built a home. They’d live in the garage of the home, and then sell it. They did this several times. One of my favorite things to do is drive around my hometown and look at the homes my grandpa built. My grandmother started selling carpet using carpet samples, and very very small store front. Eventually they started Downey Carpets & Furniture in The Dalles Oregon. The stores (two city blocks) are still there, and my aunt and uncle own them now. I spent a lot of my childhood playing in furniture, and carpet rolls! Awe the memories! I loved it!

They were snowbirds. They had a place in Lake Havasu City Az. I have a lot of memories of visiting them there. They had condos, rentals, and eventually built a second home there. I loved going to visit them. We’d go to the London Bridge. My grandma would drive us around, and introduce us to her friends. We’d always get to go swimming, which was my favorite.

My grandpa passed away several years ago. My grandmother lived at a retirement community in our hometown. They have two daughters, six grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. We are all fairly close too. I’ve always loved that about my family. I know if I needed someone they’d be there for me, and I them. My grandmother has always been the glue for our family. She knew everyone, even very distant relatives. I remember if I had a friend over, she’d know their family history by the time they left. She asked a lot of questions, she wanted to know everyone’s story. She was a sharp lady for sure.

I felt very close to her. In fact, we had a lot in common. I’ve said for years that I had more in common with her than with people my own age. She suffered from arthritis, and several other health issues. I think she went undiagnosed on a few too. In fact, the more I learn about her doctor, the more unimpressed I am. I really wish I’d have been around more the past few years and paid more attention to her pain level. She hated taking pills. I know the feeling. However, I just couldn’t imagine life in pain without them. Of course I’ve always known that she would pass on (as we all do) but I knew it was going to be particularly hard on me when she did. I was very close to her, especially as a child. As an adult, we’d talk as often as we could, although the pain she had and the pills I’m on did make it difficult at times. I am relieved she isn’t in pain anymore. I know she’s in heaven rejoicing with my grandpa, and her family and friends.

I think one of the most important lessons she ever taught us is that attitude is everything. All throughout my life, she’s told me this. It seemed to cover almost everything, from telling me to make my bed and help my mother, to being brave while being a single mother.

My grandparents will always live on in each of their grandchildren…for generations to come.

Attitude Is Everything.