not this cute anymore!My grandma wasn’t famous. She was never on the cover of a magazine or the author of a best-seller. In the world’s eyes, she probably didn’t accomplish a lot in her lifetime. But she left a legacy to her family. She had 6 children, 48 grandchildren, 100+ greats (and still counting.)
She lived 20 years as a widow, struggled with depression, and didn’t have a glamorous lifestyle. But her life WAS rich. She was spunky, energetic, and had a charismatic laugh. She could bust-a-move on the dance floor unlike any other 80 year old woman. She loved music, quilting, and most of all-- her family. She was very involved with all of her grandchildren and was a part of all major events in our lives. When she died, each of us mentioned that we thought we were her favorite. (truth be told, I really was. jk☺) Hours after Ben was born, she was next to my bed at the hospital sharing her experiences as a mother. Through her memories, I learned to love her parents and my grandpa, who died when I was 4 years old. As a young girl, I was enthralled with the pictures and stories of her past. I spent school breaks, summer vacation and long weekends at her home...playing games, sewing and sleeping next to her in her bed. These are the memories I cherish.
During the last days of her life, she was surrounded by her children and grandchildren. The nurses at the hospital couldn’t believe how many people fit into her room. I will never forget the day I said goodbye to my beautiful grandma. There were probably 40 others in the room, all singing hymns and reminiscing about our favorite lady. Luke was only a few weeks old. I was a busy mother of two babies, in the middle of my last semester at BYU…just trying to graduate. My grandma was very sick, and we made the effort to go and say goodbye, although we didn’t expect to get a response from her. We held her hands and told her how much we loved her and how much we would miss her. She smiled and tried to get out words, but it was a struggle. Just as I was about to leave, she squeezed my hand and asked, “Janet, how is school going?” I wanted to tell her how hard it was for me and how insane I was for trying to graduate with a newborn. But I couldn't respond. I just squeezed her hand and wiped away my tears. In the middle of everything, she was aware of my circumstances and cared about what was going on in my life. That means the world to me.
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Thanks Janet, that was great.
Grandma was always my favorite. I remember the first Valentines Day after my mission (2000), a guy walked into Radioshack selling a dozen roses for a good price. I bought some not knowing who to give them to (because I wasn't dating anyone). When I got home from work, I decided to drive to Midway where grandma was living at the time. She was so happy and excited to see me, and so surprised I would bring her flowers. It was a great experience to see her so happy that day.
During the hardest time of Amy's life, Roma was one of the ones to help her get through it. Amy was able to feel how hard Roma's life was and how happy she is now, it made her realize how temporary the trials of life are.
I wish Evan and Hailey could have known her better, but I'm sure they crossed paths before they were born.
Love your bro,
Scott
What a sweet tribute Jan. I remember the time I met her at her little place in Provo. She was so sweet and so tiny! It's amazing how happy and content the older generations were when they lived with much less than we do. It gives my life perspective. Happy Day Roma!
Janet- Thanks for that blog. Dave and I used to go and visit Roma's gravesite when we lived across the street from the cemetary and it is nice to learn more about the woman. Although Dave never said much about her I could always tell he held her in very high esteem and loved her very much. Katie
Janet,
That was so sweet. I love that Heavenly Father created families to include grandparents. Literally a divine decision. I love my grandparents and have such fond memories of them. I loved reading about your grandma. She sounded wonderful, just like a grandma should be. My maternal grandfather's birthday was today too, he passed away in 2004, thanks for reminding me of such a sweet part of life.
Brought tears to my eyes and happiness to my heart. I love Roma. I only met her twice, I think, but I feel like I know her much better through your stories and feelings. I am so glad that we know what a wonderful place she is in now. Happy Birthday, Roma!
Oh man, that made me cry. Do you think I could meet her someday? I'll be good, I promise. She sounds like my kind of lady :)
Thanks Janet for posting that. We had some good times visiting her in her trailer in Provo. Spoons in the milk, Ramen mixed wit cream of mushroom soup, and of course driving around with your Grandma as she drove around Jean. Roma was always so kind to me and let me pretend that she was my Grandma too because I never really knew either of my Grandmothers. She would always remember my name and made me feel loved by being interested in who I was, even as a little 12 year old. I love Roma.
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