Gram

On Friday at 4:15 eastern time, my Gram passed away in her home. Thank you so much to all of you who have been praying for her and all of us. I am comforted in the knowledge that she is in a much better place now and she is no longer suffering.
Please pray for strength for our family during this time.
Many have asked if we were close, and I would answer by saying that many of my fondest childhood memories include her. We also have communicated regularly since I left home. She only lived about two small blocks away(I could probably walk to her home in under 5 minutes). Sometimes my sister and I would ride bikes and whenever we would turn onto her street, the evil chihuahua would dash out after us, barking and nipping at our ankles. We were so afraid of that little dog! When we arrived at her house, it was always neat and tidy. Gram loved to garden, and she would frequently walk us around the perimeter of her white, two story home to take a tour of the various plants. Of course, we were always thrilled to find a toad or a big, fuzzy bumble bee. She always had toys in her front room (room by the kitchen) and we frequently played tiddly winks in there! Or pick-up sticks. She always invited us in to sit on the davenport (her word for sofa). Her nails were always polished, make-up done, hair in place, jewelry on...
She loved working crossword puzzles. I have to credit her for stimulating my mind and fostering my love for learning beyond school doors. She would often encourage me that I was college material and provided me with countless reading materials and workbooks to do in my spare time. She also took Kristie and I on several little trips around to experience Pennsylvania, Ohio, Niagra Falls, New York City, and countless other places. I am so grateful for her influence on me. I could write for days and days about these memories. I praise God that she was a part of my life!