Reality

Reality can be tough to face. Like the fact that I had an amazing weekend but none of it would have happened if I hadn't had to come home for a funeral.

This past week my great-grandmother Mamie Hart passed away at the age of 96. In her lifetime she had 11 children (of which only 3 have proceeded her in death), 30 grandchildren and somewhere in the ballpark of 145 great and great-great-grandchildren. I think it's needless to say that her passing was a big deal. I woke up bright and early Friday to drive down to Indy so I could meet up with my dad, soon to be step-mom and brother so we could all ride together. The service was somber and afterwards we headed to the cemetery. This was quite special to me. You see, I have been incredibly fortunate in that the only grandparent I've lost thus far passed away before I was born. This weekend I got to see my Grandma Charlotte's tombstone, the closest I've ever been to her in my 23 years. Afterwards we headed to Mamie's church where they put on a potluck lunch for the family. Standing in line I learned that not only did most of my aunt & uncles get married there, they actually put in indoor plumbing because of one of those weddings! It was really neat to be in my dad's small town. As we were leaving he was pointing out all sorts of places and telling us childhood stories to go with them. I don't think I had ever heard any of them.

Later that evening I went with my mom and cousin to visit my maternal grandparents. Another somber task as my grandfather is living with cancer. Let me tell you, it is really hard to see someone that you have spent your entire life admiring and looking up to in such a weak state. It's hard to hear him say that he may not even be able to plant a small garden in the spot he prepared last fall because he just doesn't feel up to it. It makes you realize just how precious your time is. Reminds me that I need to be getting down there just a little more often. Especially when it's warm enough that I can take him some of my seedlings that are currently growing out of control.


Until next time,
Lauren