Since living in Utah I've been lucky to live a lot closer to my Grandma in Bountiful. I probably haven't visited her as much as I could throughout the years... But they're always good visits and usually funny memories. Many times it's when my dad's visiting Utah himself or with some of our family. Other times it's to pick Grandma up so we can fly to AZ together. And even other times I just stop by when I happen to be around Bountiful or when I owe Grandma a trip to Sizzler :) She loves that place!
It's always great to visit because it really brightens Grandma's days. I recall when I'd call just to chat she'd always ask when I was coming to visit. And when I'd visit she'll pull out her many projects or show off her flowers just like visiting when I was a kid over the summers. David & I even visited Grandma on one of our first dates after a wedding reception in Bountiful. I could tell Grandma liked him, probably because she told me over and over what a handsome man he was :)
Anyway, lately I've tried to stop by a bit more to check on Grandma for one reason or another. She's losing a lot of her memory but still loves a visit. I honestly can't believe she lives alone at 94 (?) - she really does need some in house care or something, but until then her son in Utah visits and when he can't I do. Last time I took off a whole day of work, slept in while David had spring break, and then I headed out to see grandma in the afternoons as she seems to go to bed so early these days. I check to make sure she has food, take out the trash, check her pills, and take her out for a real meal. Last time I visited she had itchy arms and we washed and put cortisone cream all over. This time I realized her phone wasn't working (which her sons call her like daily so that's not going to work!) so I proceeded to search for a Target and buy a cheep corded house phone. Grandma was funny asking me if we should ask a "man" and was so surprised that I could "install" it. hehehe.
Even though grandma may have to ask me who I am, or where we are when we're driving around Bountiful, where her keys are or she may have even cut down the neighbors tree - lost memory - it's great to visit her! I know that service makes everyone feel good, and when it's your family that you get to serve and help or just make smile and laugh sometimes - it's worth it. I know within a day she may not remember I stopped by, but I think it makes her time a little brighter at least. It makes my time a lot brighter. I wish I could hear more about her past life, but the smiles and laughter we have is enough for now. Grandma, you're the best!
(This is Annie) Andrea, you are so sweet and kind! This was a really touching post and it made me so happy to know you are a part of our family. It must be really hard when your Grandma doesn't recognize you or what you do for her, but I know that she is lucky to have you! Thanks for sharing this post!
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