Yesterday as Ladd and I traveled home from a fun-filled night provided by his employer, I was thinking how fortunate we are. I am not talking about money or anything like that, but feeling so blessed that we are able to spend time with our kiddos and family this holiday season. I especially thought a lot about my grandparents and no matter how long they have been gone, the memories they provided to us will ever be so vivid.
My Grandma Wanell spent endless hours in the kitchen baking with us girls as we grew up. Buckeyes, sugar cookies, peanut butter kiss cookies, chocolate rolls, pumpkin rolls, jelly rolls. Oh my goodness, the list is endless. Never once did I hear her complain about the flour all over the floor or that we probably ate more than we produced. She taught us how to beautifully decorate a home and tree on a budget and how to wrap gifts. She taught us how to give joyfully and to not want or expect during the holidays.
My Grandpa would sneak in and out of all the holiday to-do's. He always made sure to take us on the mistletoe hunt and loved bringing the ugly mistletoe back to the house for Grandma. He would stand at the front door holding it up until Grandma scurried over to give him the much sought after kiss and squishy hugs. He also had to taste-test all of the baked goodies and frequently stopped by to pat my Grandma on the back and give her kisses.
Grandma woke at early hours of the morning to prepare the most delicious Christmas breakfast a person could envision with glazed spiral sliced ham, bacon, sausage, homemade buttermilk biscuits, gravy, chocolate gravy, and just about every side you could think of in visions of the best breakfast ever. The best part of Christmas breakfast? Walking in the door and my Grandma's expression of excitement and happiness at seeing her family.
We usually received practical gifts from my Grandma . . . Sunday clothes or warm socks, but she also gave us gifts that would last for MANY years ahead. Each year she gave us a blanket or quilt and always with a note written or embroidered in the corner "Love Grandpa and Grandma Allen" with the year. To this day I have those blankets, some tattered and torn and worse for wear, but they have been with me in every apartment or home I have lived and have wrapped each of my kiddos in warmth and love.
My Grandmother truly captured the holiday season in her smile and acts of kindness. She sought after the family that needed clothes or a hot meal and provided it. She found the child that needed a hug and gave it. She loved relentlessly and gave what she had to offer. She kept her focus on Christ and shared it with anyone who would listen. My Grandma, oh how I miss her today.
