I don't really know how to start this, so I'll say this...It's been an interesting week. My grandfather passed away this morning. I think for all of us, it's been a slightly surreal experience and I'm grateful that my family has been here for the bulk of it. I haven't had to go through it alone. My parents have been here and my aunt has been here. I've had some great conversations with my aunt that could easily lead me directly to grad school in the near future. (Yay for direction!) In the midst of it all, we had a discussion that went something like this:
Aunt Dorice: If anyone asks if there is anything that they can do...tell them to bring chocolate cookies.
Me: Okay...?
Aunt Dorice: We have plenty of food here. People will offer to bring meals. Tell them we need comfort food. Chocolate cookies.
Me: Alright. Right. Well, we're making banana bread. We'll put chocolate chips in it.
Aunt Dorice: That'll do, but we could still use chocolate cookies.
Me: Okay.
[A few minutes passed and the rest of the family entered the room and conversation.]
[knock at the door]
Neighbor: Hello-I was wondering how you are all doing?
Unspecified Family Member: Oh, it's been a long day...
Neighbor: Well...I was wondering if I could interest you in a pie.
[laughter from all family members]
Me: SHE GOT THE MEMO!!!
It was a rhubarb pie. It was FABULOUS! Loved it.
Now. Re-reading this, I would like to clarify two things: 1) My aunt is NOT obsessive when it comes to chocolate cookies. My family has a very healthy appreciation (can I use that word?)for chocolate cookies. 2) I have a heightened appreciation for family and the plan of salvation. As tired as I have been for the past 2 weeks, there has been an INCREDIBLE peace in our home. I know that I'll see my grandfather again. I know that he is happy and with other friends and family members who welcomed him with his own version of "well done-thou good and faithful servant."
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4 comments:
I'm sorry to hear about your grandpa, but glad you had family with you, and that you could laugh! I'll definitely remember the comfort food, if I ever need to help.
gee, now i want to bring you chocolate chip cookies! was that the subliminal message? In reality, you don't want me to do that. I make horrible cookies. Ask Em, she and I screwed up the most amazing cookie recipe once.
Ahhh, Shandy dear. I'm soooo sorry. I really really wish I was there to give you a hug, make you some chocolate chip cookies and just sit and chat for awhile.
Sorry to hear about your Grandfather. Hope your Grandma is doing okay too. Take care and Love to the Family!
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