Tuesday, November 18, 2008

My Grandma Beckstrand

Today is my grandma Beckstrand's birthday. She passed away 7 days before my 8th birthday in 1985. I remember how snowy and cold it was the night of her viewing and how cold is was when we went to Meadow to her burial.
I remember being so sad that I was baptized a few weeks after she had died, but I remember feeling and sensing her presence at my baptism.
But I also remember what a fun grandmother she was.

She always made us delicious, warm breakfasts and let us use the "cat" syrup holder (which my parents now have- I will have to take a picture)
She made us beautiful homemade gifts for our birthdays.
She always would get down on the floor and play with us.
She always had a smile on her face.
She would sneak us pieces of gum from her purse.
When she lost all of her hair from the chemo and radiation, she would let us feel her soft, bare head, when she removed her wig.
She let us watch The Price is Right and Charlie's Angels with her.
She made the best chocolate chip cookies ever.
I have lots of memories of her, but I guess the one that sticks out in my mind the most, is just how she was the most loving, charitable person, who always worked hard and smiled. She never complained, even when she was so sick with cancer. She always wore a smile and was just a great grandma. I love her and hope to be like her. Happy Birthday Grandma Beckstrand!

5 comments:

Jaime said...

What a nice tribute. I read a book recently where a young girl was wanting to find her roots and her great gma told her you can "know" your ancestors w/o "meeting" them by keeping the memories alive and sharing those w/ family and passing on traditions!

stephschmidt said...

Grandma's are the best, aren't they? I don't think there's anything in the world like a grandparents love!

Heather Bankhead said...

that is very beautiful mare!

Unknown said...

I am SO lucky to have 2 of my grandma's still. I am so glad to get a glimpse of yours!

Audrey and the Boys said...

Thanks for the reminder. I would have let the day pass without realizing what day it is. You have such a wonderful memory. That is really a blessing. Please share more of them with me!