Big Grandma

On Dec. 30, we found out that my grandma (the great grandkids called her Big Grandma) had passed away. Although she was 94 years old, it still came as a suprise. She had been a little sick over the week of Christmas, but she thought it was the flu. Just the last day, my mom started thinking there was more going on and needed to see a doctor, but she never made it to that appointment. I feel it a blessing that she passed so quickly. She did not like doctors, hospitals or being sick. She lived a long life and we loved having her with us, but as her husband, and only son and daughter had already passed away....I think she was ready to be with them. It's always hard to say good-bye, but what a blessing it is to know of the gospel and know what a joyous reunion they are having. I bet she is so happy! I'm a little envious that she gets to be with my dad.

The last time I got to see her was this past summer. Here she is holding Rachel. She was so excited to get to meet her and I'm glad she got that chance. We were planning on visiting her over Christmas, but as she lived 1 1/2 hr away from my mom and was a little sick, so I never got the chance.

My whole family, minus my dad (I like to believe he was somewhere close by)

Lucas and his Uncle D. Max

My mom gave all the girl grandchildren these sweaters for Christmas. We all planned to have them wear them for the funeral so we could get a picture. It was way too chaotic for any of them to focus....hopefully someone got a good shot.

Because of the funeral we ended up staying 2 weeks. It was a great trip. We always love visiting our familiy. We wish sometimes that we could live there, but there is always a good feeling of coming back home. Who knows...maybe someday!