My Grandma’s Lips

Today would have been my grandma’s 80th birthday. Instead of planning a huge celebration for her like we did for my Papa several years ago, we’ve gone 14 months without her in our lives. Memory is such a powerful concept, and I’m so glad to have wonderful memories of my grandparents.

fave.

When all of the family members were respectfully combing through all their worldly possessions (which, I might add, was almost as emotional as the funerals were for me), I took two tubes of my grandma’s lipstick. She had about six tubes of it, all in exactly the same shade. That was such a testament to my grandma. Predictable in a good way, steady, no surprises. It was a very pale, unassuming color, which also belied my grandma’s personality. Never one to seek attention, always working in the background.’

Last night, I applied some of the lipstick. It made me think of the lips it used to touch, only a little over a year ago. And I decided I wanted my lips to bring forth the same words my grandma did.

Papa and grandma with us at our wedding.

So encouraging. When Ben and I moved to Houston (taking away two of her great-grandbabies), she told us that she didn’t really understand but that she loved us, was proud of us, and was happy we were following God.

Do I encourage the people around me?

So loving. She always, always told us that she loved us. On the phone, in person, in birthday cards.

She never let her love be doubted, and I don’t want my love to be questioned, ever.

Singing. One of my last memories of her was of her holding Papa’s hand in his last days, singing to him.

I don’t sing enough.

Speaking of the Lord, his word, and his promises.

How much do I speak naturally of God and his work in my life?

My grandma wasn’t perfect, but she was pretty darn close. She taught me to be a better lady with her humble spirit and loving words. I know that her wish would be for us to not grieve over her, but live in a way that would honor her life and legacy.

PS I don’t think I’ve ever cried this much writing a post. Love and miss you, Papa and Grandma.