Yesterday's post about my grand-daughter got me to thinking about my own grandmothers. I had two and they were nearly polar opposites in some ways. They were both lovely. One was called "Nanny" and the other was "Nanna". My darling little Nanny was poor. Dirt poor. But whenever I think of her, I remember her million dollar smile. She lit up the room when she smiled. And she smiled often.
Despite eeking out a living on her hands and knees scrubbing the floors in the homes of the wealthy, she was a cheerful woman. Strong, capable, get things done person.
When we visited her apartment, you could smell the homemade soup that seemed to always be on the stove. A warm, delicious and inviting smell wafting down the dingy halls of her building. The door would open and there she would be...all gummy smiles and giggles and "Come in, come in!" And soft kisses. She had lost her teeth and refused to wear dentures. ("they hurt my gums!")
As a young person, when I would be shopping downtown with my friends, I would on occasion, see my Nanny walking and when she spotted me, there was the smile and a hearty wave. So, over I would go to get my soft kisses. She would open her purse and give me all of her change. And she had so little money, I didn't want to take it, but she would insist. "Here Cheryl, go buy yourself a treat".
I can feel a lump in my throat now. And it is because I miss those soft kisses. My beautiful Grandmother, has long since passed into the next world. She was a deeply religious woman who relied on her God every day of her life. The beautiful poetry she wrote was a testament to this faith. And that sweet, sweet smile...despite some real hardships.
I love you Nanny. Until we are together again....and I can feel those soft kisses.
"It is as grandmothers that our mothers come into the fullness of their grace."
~Christopher Morley
Tell me dear reader, do you have a grandmother story or comment you would like to share?
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