Christmas with Jesus

Another of our Grandparents will be spending Christmas in Heaven this year. My Grandma Ruby went to be with the Lord last Monday evening. I've been wanting to write about my memories of her, but it's just been too hard so I've been putting it off. I'm so sad to say goodbye, but I know she is in a much better place. And I keep reminding myself that the reason I'm so sad is because I have so many good memories, and that is something to be thankful for. And it's comforting to know that we will be reunited with our loved ones again in Heaven one day. It makes me smile to think my Grandma may be sharing stories with Barb, Oney, and Jack. I'll bet they are having a good time together. They all had distinct personalities and a lot of spunk!

The memorial service for my Grandma was nice, and instead of having something formal at the grave site, the family shared stories of my Grandma. It was great to remember her in that way, and she would have loved seeing us all together. Clara even chimed in at one point, "Poop!" I had noticed a few seconds before she announced it but was hoping to wait a few more minutes to change her. No such luck. We all got a good laugh, and my Grandma would have too. That's the great thing about children, they really do brighten your day in any circumstance. I think having Clara there made the day a little easier for all of us.

Four generations

Ruby Irene, 74, retired J.C. Penney secretary, passed away on Monday (Nov. 29, 2010).
She is survived by her daughters, Marsha (Steve), Julie (Earl), and Brenda (Eddie); nine grandchildren, Nicole, Clint, Trent, Matt, Jessica, Jacob, Courtney, Brittany and Caleb; and four great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her infant daughter Rhonda Lynn; parents Henry and Ora; brothers John and Russell; and sister Betty.

I will miss you Grandma! Thanks for all the good memories - Christmas stockings, hunting Easter eggs filled with candy and money, birthday lunches at Felipe's, long talks at the kitchen table with gummy bears, skipbo, mean ol' Mama cat, letters and care packages at college, and loving your family. Also, thanks for my Mama--she's pretty great.