Grandmother

Today is not just another day. For my family, it's a sad anniversary. Two years ago we lost Grandmother. Her death was particularly hard in its manner; a car wreck. You expect grandparents to die from the illnesses that typically take the elderly but never an accident.

While we all miss her tremendously it is comforting to know that we will be reunited with her in heaven. Time heals but luckily can never steal the memory of Grandmother.

Her laugh. It is, quite possibly, her most memorable attribute. The roar could be heard throughout the house and always resorted to a snort. It was contagious and a coveted reaction you sought with stories.

Her voice was the first one I ever recognized to be "southern". Oddly enough, she managed to say a few words with a northern note.

You did your best to never make her mad as a child because the punishment was harsh, a fly swatter.

Once she made her mind up on a person's character, nothing would change it. Bringing boyfriends and friends for a first impression meeting with her was more stressful on us than them.

She shared her opinion freely, whether invited or not.

She was a collector of animals, alive and inanimate. With every visit we met a new dog, cat, chicken, goat, turkey, guinea, rooster or pig. Most rescued by her and my grandad. Her home was filled with scores of chicken decor and teddy bears. Although not my style, it made for easy gift giving. You knew that regardless of what you gave her, it would be proudly displayed in her home.

She had a way of making each of us grandchildren feel unique. We were individually recognized and made to feel a stand out. She gave each of us our own nickname early on which she used up until our last reference. Childhood overnight visits meant we would have our own box of cereal even if she had to purchase multiple varieties. Small as it may seem, it went along with countless lessons of embracing our individuality. Of course at the time it meant you didn't have to share cereal with anyone else.

She was a true matriarch. The family revolved around her and she knew it. Missing her planned gatherings in their entirety or by an hour meant you were due a guilt inducing speech the second you were spotted.

Because she was that strong figure no holiday, function or family conversation has been the same since. She left a lasting impression on us. Something that will never fade as it will be passed down to generations to come.

We love her and miss her but are thankful for the time we had with our Grandmother.