For Grandma

It was the late ’90’s and I was tucked in my hotel bed at the beautiful Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. My middle school self had been worn out by the sun and endless amounts of food. Around 2 am the door crashed open. I heard a scream, “I won! I won!”

Confused, I woke up and rolled over to look at my Grandma’s beaming face. “Ashley, I won!” My Grandma decided to use her good karma and took a shot at gambling. Not only did Grandma do well on a slot machine that night, but she hit the jackpot!

Even as a Grandma, she was always living vicariously, never taking life for granted. She was the life of the party, with a contagious laugh and heart of gold. Her faith and values reflected that of a modern-day Proverbs 31 woman. There are so many wonderful things that could be said about her – she was incredible.

Tomorrow marks the four year anniversary of her celebration into heaven. Despite that time apart, her smile still shines.

After her funeral I received this fur coat from her closet. It was a complete surprise! Because of its sentimental value, it’s become my special occasions coat. The second time I was wearing it, I reached my hands in the pockets only to find her embroidered handkerchief. I’m sure she was there next to me with a huge smile and giving me a big hug!