This has been a tough week not just for me, but for my family as well. My Grandma Tharp had been sick this past year & in & out of the hospital. Monday, the resthome called my parents to tell them Grandma wasn't doing well & that they should come down. My mom called me at work to tell me which she usually does not do unless it is serious. I knew this was serious! I left work early Monday to spend time with grandma, staying several hours to hold her hand & talk to her. Two of my aunts had come by the time I got there & my dad was there. I feel badly that I did not go see her the next morning as my mom called me about 11:00 on Tues to tell me that Grandma had passed away. I didn't know what to do & just reacted as I started to cry at work. The rest of the week has been tough but has taught Rich & I a lot about family & life/death. Our family spent time meeting with the minister, going to the moturary, & talking about memories of Grandma.
My Grandma was a good woman! There were times growing up that I wasn't close to her, but I always loved her & admired the way she cared for others. Grandma was a hard worker and never slowed down until the end. In many ways I feel that I was the closest grandchild to her since I live in town & could see her when I wanted. I miss Grandma a lot!
There were also times when Grandma & my Dad didn't get along, but I know they loved each other. The night before my Grandma's death my Dad & I were in the room with her for a while by ourselves. The look on his face said it all. I have never seen my Dad look so concerned or scared in my life. My dad seems to be doing pretty well so far, but I know that he is sad. His family has never been really close & he was the only boy in the mix of 3 sisters! It's not going to be easy for him or any of us for a while. We are a family though and we will get through this together. Grandma would want that more than anything!
Grandma was such a part of our lives for many years as she always will be. I know Grandma is in a better place up in Heaven. She is smiling, she is seeing her parents, & my Grandfather after 30 years of being without him. She is happy!