Remembering

Sometimes you can't help but remember. Certain situations, songs, phrases, pictures, and even smells can make you stop and remember.

The past couple of days have been filled with remembering my grandma. Grandma Alonte.

She was an amazing woman. My sister and I were talking all about her this past weekend. We began to verbalize what we had been thinking for a while. We both realized we wished we would have been able to say a few more things to her about how we felt about her. We loved her and we really thought the world of her. She was strong, dedicated and hard working. She was a great mom, a loving grandma and a warm, caring friend.

When we were kids, my sisters and I would take turns and spend the night at grandma's house. We would help her clean, take the garbage out and do odds and ends that maybe she couldn't do anymore. Then we would head out to eat with her friends and get doted on. I remember being able to stay up late, and even eat candy if I wanted to. We would watch movies, talk, and laugh ("Don't tell your dad I told you this, but when he was a kid...") She was the one who taught me to smile. I used to not show my teeth, try to not show my dimples. (April, God gave you something no one else has. Show the world that smile and never ever hide it)

I was born on her birthday. April 23rd. We always had that link. We always called each other and talked. I loved sharing a birthday with her.

I can't help it. I miss her.

Remembering my grandma makes me want to touch lives like she did. She was unforgettable and what is more, unshakable when it came to her faith. She is in heaven now and I can't wait for the day when I don't have to remember. I can't wait for the day I can hug her and tell her to her face all the things I wish I would have said to her when she was still here.

It's nice to remember, but whats more is that it's nice to know I'll see her again.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

When we've been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.