Things Grannie Taught Me

Thursday morning, April 5, 2012 I received the phone call I had been anticipating for many days.  Actually, for many weeks and months I knew this call would come.  After three weeks in ICU and over 96 years of a wonderful life, my Grandmother passed away that morning about 4:00.  My cousin Melissa, who had determined to be her caregiver, friend, and incredible granddaughter was by her side.  Even though we knew it was inevitable, the tears flowed that morning and I am certain in the days to come there will be more.  In her later years, Grannie had a hard time remembering who folks were, but I always remembered who she was!
At her death, I have realized that I have had almost 50 years of learning, of character development, and wisdom stemming from this saintly lady.
Here are some things I have learned from Grannie:
1.  I have learned to laugh!
Grannie loved to tell stories and jokes.  One my favorites was the story about little Susie in class and having a hard time sitting still.  In fact, the teacher even called her out, "Susie, can you not be still?"  Susie replied, "I am sorry teacher, my butt is asleep," to which little Johnny sitting right behind her blurted out, "It sure is Teacher, I have heard snore three times!"
2.  I have learned to be hospitable but firm.
Grannie always wanted to make sure that her guests were well rested and fed.  She always kept things neat and clean.  Even in her latter years, keeping things in order was important to her.  I remember visiting her at Autumn Care, the nursing facility which she lived.  Often when I would visit her she would be in the dining area, sitting at a table in a wheel chair.  One particular time, another lady was sitting at the table with us and kept pulling the table cloth up.  Granny would reach over and pull it down.  The lady would pull it up, and Granny would pull it down again.  After about the third or fourth time, Granny looked at that lady and in anger said, "Just look at the mess you're making!  Shoot a monkey!"  I realized right then, that I just heard my Grandmother come the closest I had ever heard to cussing! 
3.  I have learned to grow flowers, vegetables, and fruits.
Grannie loved her flower gardens.  She and my Grandfather made a great team for 63 years with their flower gardens, fruits and vegetables!
4.  I have learned to store up the harvest for the cold winter ahead and share what I had.
If you spent any time at all at Papa and Granny's house, you knew there would be a time that  we worked in the garden and then a time putting it all away.  Granny would always share the fruits of the harvest.  She never had much, but she always had enough to share.
5.  I have learned to appreciate front porches.
It didn't matter when you came to visit, how cold or hot it was, or how late you left.  Granny always walked out on the porch to see you off. 
6.  I have learned to hug and kiss those you love.
7.  I have learned that it is okay to talk with your mouth full, especially if you are from "Ardell County."
8.  I have learned that there will never be a better coconut cake, a red velvet cake or banana pudding this side of heaven!
9.  I have learned that if WFMX radio was playing really loud in the kitchen and it was still dark outside, breakfast would be ready in just a few minutes!
10.  I have learned that Jesus loves me, that I was prayed for everyday, and that one day I willl see her again because I have placed my trust in this Jesus she told me about!