Day Four: Celebrating Gram

On Saturday morning my mom let Gram know that it was probably a good idea to do her hair and dress in something 'a little nicer' for the day.

A few hours before the party began, we finally had to let her know what was happening to that we could transform the house a little and begin decorating.  My sister had made a beautiful photo book with pictures of Gram through the years as well as many sweet, priceless memories the two of us have of her.  You know, things like vacationing with her

and celebrating birthdays together.

She also never missed a graduation (high school, college or post graduate), kept us stocked in groceries all through college, and has taught us to love our heritage and ancestors.

Gram seemed to really enjoy looking at those pictures, many of which she had completely forgotten about, while we prepared for the party.

We kept the celebration rather simple, but did invite as many of her friends and family as we could to come and share their love with her.

Most of my Grandma's living siblings were there, as well as nephews and nieces.

As were all of her daughters.

Jeff Judkins, the BYU Women's Basketball coach, came by.  He and his wife have been long time friends.

Her house was completely full of family and friends.  You could literally FEEL the love.

And while she is definitely someone who doesn't seek attention or celebration of any kind, she was so gracious, and I think she really loved it.  She is so, so deserving.

(With nephew Duane Call and his wife.)

So much of Gram's life is just about giving and helping however she can.  Her list of sisters that she visit teaches is longer than mine.  She has a way of making anyone she's talking to feel special and important.  Family or not, if you wanted to reach out to her and be a part of her life, she would love you right back without reservation.

And, oh, this lady is a hard worker.  She still mops her floor on her hands and knees.  She bottles fruit, tends to her flower garden, and irons her sheets.  She's a lady who has worked hard her entire life, starting as a very young child in Mexico.  I think it's that hard work that has something to do with why she's still with us.  She is constantly pushing herself to stay busy and active, even though her body won't quite allow her to do as much as she'd like. 

Included with the invitation was a card for people to write memories or things they love about Gram.  I'm compiling those into a book for her, and it's been special to read that so many people have the same tender, sweet feelings for Gram that I do.

I'm so grateful that we celebrated her.  I got kind of emotional on Saturday after the party as I thought about how blessed I am to have her as mine.  I want to be like her in so many ways.  I want to work hard, get past difficult times and focus on joy, serve selflessly, and love my family in word and action. She has been so generous and very present in our lives, and it has made all the difference.

Love you Gram.