In memory of...
In my life, I have been very fortunate. I know losing a loved one would turn my life upside down and I am very thankful that I have not yet experienced the turmoil of grief. I do not deal with change very well and would prefer that we all live forever. Or at least, live a longer youth. I get depressed just thinking about the passing on of my childhood, my pregnancyhood and my daughter's babyhood.

There have been people I've known who have passed on. But there is only one person with whom I've had a close connection. My grandmother. She was my maternal grandmother. She passed away when I was 4 so I didn't really understand what had happened nor do I recall feeling a sense of loss. All I remember was that she was here one day and then gone the next. I have a few memories of her but they are fond ones. I remember that she lived with us. And I remember she used to play with me a lot. She would bounce me up and down on her knee and sing a Portuguese nursery rhyme that began with, "Giddyup, horsey!" Other than that, I don't remember much more. I only wish that I could remember the words to that rhyme. I know Madeleine would enjoy it.

So I dedicated this post in memory of my grandma. I know my mother went through a hard time. And I know she misses her. Each time I turn to my mother with a problem or to seek advice or a listening ear, she's there. I can't imagine what I'd do without her...