We were just here...

From April 13, 2007...

we drove up to the church for the funeral and I was still in shock. "it seems we were just here." the shock of my grandmother's sudden death left all of us wishing we had one more chance to eat at her table. you see, its just been over 15 mos. since my grandfather's passing. they left a legacy of humilty, contentment and marital commitment, having been married for 57 years.

Nanny died suddenly from what we think to be a massive stroke. you probably are thinking silently "oh, well she was probably old and sick." nothing could be more untrue. she was well, she was still employed- shuttling cars for a rental company, driving to and from new orleans several times a week. she babysat her 2 yr old great grandchild every friday night. she loved watching sports, soap operas and Dancing with the Stars. she was a young 77- healthy mind and strong willed. she was fiesty with a great sense of humor.she missed my Pawpaw, but tried so hard to not burden us with her emotion. she cooked like no other. you were lucky to eat her food. she taught me hospitality and service. if you entered her house- you were never thirsty or hungry- she took care of you and I will continue what she taught me for the guests at my house.

i miss her, its only been 12 days since she passed. our families are sifting through her house, cleaning and selling. this is the home of our family- every holiday meal and our memories in that house- will be sold soon and we will grieve on yet another level.

her ceremony was perfect. it was sweet, beautiful and there was laughter. she was buried in pj's (that is what she had mentioned long ago) she never quite understood why others were buried in nice clothes, she wanted to appear that she had just fallen asleep. here we were again, carried by my best friend's arm to the same pew, ceremony almost the same order, same pastor, letter of memories read by a family friend, and a church filled with those that loved her and those that love us. my sister chose the song "Come to Me" by Kari Jobe. Perfect. Sung by two very dear friends, Courtney Yancey and Kristi Christian on the piano.

the lyrics...
Come to Me you weary one
And I will give you rest
For My yoke is easy and My burden light
Take me upon you and I will give you rest
Come to Me you broken one and i will give you peace
I will calm your waters and I will whisper peace be still
Take Me upon you and I will give you peace
Come to me you burdened one and I will give you joy
You will rise as eagles and My joy will be your strength
Take me upon you and I will give you joy

Nanny was not sick. She was tired, she was sad, she was lonely after losing pawpaw. the greater plan here- we all see it. our sadness is accompanied by complete understanding of God's purpose and timing. by faith, we are renewed