REMEMBERING GRANDMA GRACE

Thoughts before Bedtime

My mama, whom we all love so dearly, passed away two years ago. My sister, brother, and I speak about her frequently because she played such an important role in forming  who we are today. Mama was quiet, loving, protective, and so much more. We always say that we never met anyone who wasn’t drawn to her sweet and caring nature. She was our Little Italian Mama.

I know, I know, some of you are probably thinking that I am idealizing her. Maybe so, but it is the truth about who she was and what she stood for. I suppose I was thinking about her tonight because of a conversation that came up during lunch with the girls. Actually, there were only three of us, but that is all one needs to experience belly laughs interspersed with serious conversation. 

One topic centered around the people in our past lives who helped us to overcome some adversity when we had young children. My contribution was about Mama always being there for her three children, whenever, she was needed. 

I had several serious health issues back then. We lived in Maryland and it only took one call before  Mama was on her way. My dad would drop her off and return home to Pennsylvania. She took over the household without any fuss, bother, or noise. She was a wonderful cook and a divine baker. My family and I were so thankful that Grandma Grace was there for us.

One of the most vivid memories my sister and I have of Mama is of her later years when we got to tuck her into bed. Mama was such a little thing all her life. She stood about five feet tall and never weighed more than 100 pounds. She would crawl into her bed, snuggle under the warm covers (yes, even in the hot Carolina summers) and sigh deeply. Mama would say, “This is the best part of the day.”  As we turned off her light, we could hear her whispering her prayers and offering them up to God.

It is time for me to trundle off to my bed. I am auditing an Italian class at the University. I have been studying for tomorrow’s test. 

I, too, shall climb into my bed, turn off the light, and repeat Mama’s favorite nighttime words. “ This is the best part of the day.”

Goodnight and be well.

Live simply.

Speak gently.

Love unconditionally.