Tomorrow, I make the long journey back home.
Coming out to help my mother and grandmother get things in order has been exhausting, emotionally draining, but ultimately very enlightening. Even more, it has given me a feeling like I have helped in some small part.
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| My grandparents walking down the aisle at my mother's first wedding |
My grandmother is trying hard to put on a brave face and take these changes in stride, but watching her cry so much and hearing her talk about how lonely it is for her at night and how much she misses him, makes my heart ache for her. As the week comes to a close, the realization of these changes seems to become more clear to her and it is harder for her to maintain her composure.
For better or for worse, we are helping her start this new chapter in her life. I can only guess how scared and uncertain she feels. Even so, every once in a while she gives me a big smile and I feel like things are going to be OK for her.
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Comments (16)
Wow. I cannot even imagine how much emotion all of you have been experiencing. I'm just glad that your grandmother has such a great support system. It makes a huge difference. I can't imagine losing M after ten years, let alone over half a century. Hugs to you. Enjoy home, Leo and the pups.
Posted by Julia | November 5, 2007 3:25 PM
Posted on November 5, 2007 15:25
How hard it must be for her. She is lucky to have you to help her during this difficult time. I am keeping you and your family in my prayers. *hugs*
Posted by Ruinwen | November 5, 2007 10:29 AM
Posted on November 5, 2007 10:29
I'm sorry for the loss of your grandfather. You look like a trio of strong women, surrounded in love.
Posted by yogahz | November 5, 2007 9:14 AM
Posted on November 5, 2007 09:14
The three of you look so great together. I'm sure just being there with her was a help to her.
Posted by Jody | November 5, 2007 9:05 AM
Posted on November 5, 2007 09:05
Your grandma looks like a terrific woman. It's so hard when someone you love dies; I'm sure she really appreciated and enjoyed you and your mom being there.
Posted by seedless grape | November 5, 2007 6:49 AM
Posted on November 5, 2007 06:49
What a shame old couples can't go at the same time. I can't even imagine what it would be like to lose a mate of 68 years. I did lose a mate of 7 years, which was horrific enough, but to have been with someone, undoubtedly your soul mate, for 68 years? Wow!
You're right, your grandmother does have a beautiful smile. It's easy to see where you and your mom get your looks. :-)
Posted by Rennagayle | November 4, 2007 12:19 PM
Posted on November 4, 2007 12:19
I teared up at this. Big change can be so hard. I'm glad you were able to be with her for part of it.
Posted by TheAmpuT | November 4, 2007 8:37 AM
Posted on November 4, 2007 08:37
Hi Marnie,
I'm so sorry to hear about your grandfather. I'm so glad you could go be with her, and I am amazed at 68 years. Wow.
Posted by larissa | November 3, 2007 5:25 PM
Posted on November 3, 2007 17:25
I'm so sorry that you lost your Grandfather and that your Granny is in such pain. 68 years is a LONG time.
I'm sure your presence helped (probably more than you think).
Posted by paula | November 3, 2007 3:41 PM
Posted on November 3, 2007 15:41
I'm sure your presence made a huge difference. Thanks for sharing these pictures with us, and take care of yourself - thinking of you and your family and your sweet Grandma.
Posted by Carrie | November 3, 2007 10:23 AM
Posted on November 3, 2007 10:23
Sad, but doing this together has to have helped a lot... Safe trip home!
Posted by --Deb | November 3, 2007 5:53 AM
Posted on November 3, 2007 05:53
i watched my mom go through a lot of this when my dad passed. it's hard to watch but i promise that it does get better.
have a safe trip home.
Posted by jody | November 3, 2007 1:46 AM
Posted on November 3, 2007 01:46
Am sure Grandma knows she has a special gift, that is to have you in her life! Lovely that you are around to help her.
Posted by Ginger aka Beethoven | November 3, 2007 1:22 AM
Posted on November 3, 2007 01:22
Oh Marnie - I'm thinking of your family, and wishing peace and love to your grandma.
Posted by Mary-Heather | November 2, 2007 9:32 PM
Posted on November 2, 2007 21:32
Of course, you're being there was a help and a comfort. How could it not be? I'm sure you can reach things on a much higher self than she can. ;^)
I hope she is able to adjust smoothly to her new life and find some peace there.
Posted by Cookie | November 2, 2007 6:58 PM
Posted on November 2, 2007 18:58
She is fortunate to have your love, compassion, and support at this difficult time.
Posted by Punkin | November 2, 2007 6:56 PM
Posted on November 2, 2007 18:56