A GREAT WOMAN

Three years.


Three years ago the greatest woman I've ever known went on to her heavenly reward. I know that's where Grandma went, because she was a living Saint. Had to be, with everything her kids and grandkids put her through.


When my family moved to Florida, and my parents started up their company, she was the one who took care of Brother and I. Until I insisted on being a latch-key kid, she was there to greet me after school. Whenever we played cards, she let me cheat. (I thought I was slick, but she always caught me.) With the patience no mortal could possibly possess, she taught me watercolors. As a mother, she raised six kids while working in a factory. (She was an army wife.) She never tried to push ideals or dreams on her kids, only nurturing their hopes and aspirations.


Even after her body became frail, and required special care, her mind and tongue remained as quick and sharp as always. Many an unworthy suitor has had this sweet, little old lady emasculate him (or her) over Thanksgiving dinner.


When I was fourteen, I went with her to the nearby army base to get her medications. It's a few miles from her condo, off of A1A. Nothing big, for an experienced driver. As we were walking back to the car, she settles herself in the passenger seat and I say, "Grandma! I can't drive." She looked at me with a poker face and said, "Just close your eyes, stomp the pedal, and pray!" She was never your stereotypical elderly driver. When she was in her seventies, the State of Florida was considering legislation that would hinder certain elderly individuals. She always drove like a bat out of hell, or else snapping at her children to "Step on it!" when they drove her anywhere.


She was a colorful, hilarious, beautiful, lovely, wonderful woman.



I miss her everyday.