Grandmother

I am very tired tonight, but before I drift off to sleep I want to share a memory of my Grandmother with all of you. I miss her so much. This picture immediately took me back to the street where she lived with my Grandfather. My Grandfather owned a flower shop. They lived above the shop. Grandfather's eventual climb up those long and narrow stairs after closing up was an event. I would sit in the kitchen with my Grandmother while she removed her apron and fixed her hair before greeting Grandfather. He was such a handsome man, and so good, and gentle. What a beautiful couple they made.

I loved to hug my Grandmother. Like capturing a summer breeze and lingering there. Her hair was perfectly coiffed. A statuesque women who dressed beautifully, no matter what the occasion. She was my role model growing up, and even as she aged and her frail body grew tender, Grandmother always maintained an air of elegance.

Yes, Grandmother was elegant. A regimented women who cared for her family and her home as she cared for herself. With discipline, dignity and strict controls. I never once saw Grandmother take more then a small helping at the table. Never saw her diet, or deprive herself of anything, nor did she indulge. While other people her age where on prescribed medications, Grandmother was squeezing lemon juice into her water, and eating the foods she cooked in her own kitchen.

My Grandmother, God rest her soul, was a women to be admired and emulated. It would be wonderful if my grandchildren (should I be fortunate to have any) felt the same about me.

*Painting by Sergei Yaralov - please see side panel for details*