In Tribute

My precious grandmother went to be with Jesus last week on May 2. I can't even express the degree of sadness that has enveloped my heart. I already miss her dearly, and I don't forsee it getting much better soon. I loved my Nena so much. I haven't really grasped the consept that she isn't here with us anymore. I keep expecting to answer the phone and try to explain how to fix the TV for her. I could rairly fix it over the phone for her and inevitably refered her to Nathan's cell phone. My sweet husband could always patiently walk her through the solution to fix the problem.

There are so many things I will miss about Nena. She had the most amazing giving spirit. She freely gave her love, attention, and resouces to anyone in need and some that just wanted. Ask anyone what the remember most about Nena and they will tell you she was one of the most generous people they knew. Speeking of friends, Nena had friends she didn't even know about. Anyone who met her was instantly a friend. Shy to a fault, she learned to move past her first instinct to avoid new people and situations. She learned to care for herself and make new friends everywhere she went.

Her name wasn't Nena, but that is what everyone called her. She was born Edith and stayed that way until I was born. I renamed her Nena and it stuck. No one knows how I picked that name, but that is who she became to everyone. Shortly after her death, I had several people express that they never even knew her given name. She was always simply Nena. Maybe her peers called her Edith at one point, but many of them had grandkids too and ended up sticking with Nena instead.

I was blessed to have 34 years with my Nena. Many kids don't have as many years with their grandparents. In the later years, I spent some time caring for her. I watched her interact with Brenna and got glimpses of my childhood again. I wish I could have had more years with her, but know that she is without pain with Jesus now. I am greatful that she is now able to dance with her beloved husband again. Her knees and back no longer hurt and she doesn't have any need for a cane, walker, or wheelchair. She didn't suffer over long years, and the last words she said and heard were, "I love you." I pray I will go that well one day.

She was loved by many which was evit at her well attended funeral. What a beautiful service of laughter and tears. She would have loved the service. It was a great time to remember and reflect on her life. It will remain a precious memory for me to hold in my heart. The graveside service was quiet and intimate as we said our last goodbyes for now. I am thankful that this goodbye is not forever for I will one day be able to hug my grandmother again. Her body may lie beside her husband and inlaws, but her spirits is dancing with them in heaven.