It's been a long time since I've posted anything since "My Daddy". I never thought I could express anything more sincere and from the heart as I did that day in April '09.
As hard as it has been to overcome and accept the passing of my father, I must tell the story about my gramma.
Born December 16, 1906, my gramma, Alvina Carlson, was an incredible woman. She lived through challenges in her life with strength and determination that I reflect upon today and gain strength and determination from.
She lived through many tragedies - the death of a sibling at a young age, the Great Depression, WWII among other wars, and still managed to raise two daughters on her own. During the Depression she worked as a hostess in a restaurant. "People with money still went out to eat dear," she'd tell me, reflecting on her earlier years. She was a survivor. Circumstances did not determine her actions. Her actions were a result of managing the circumstances.
Her two daughters produced 11 grandchildren. Those 11 grandchildred produced 13 great grandchildren - my fine son Devin being number 13. Of her 11 grandchildren, my oldest cousin Kathy was born on October 3rd, 1950. I am the youngest of the 11 grandchildren, born on October 3rd, 1960. Exactly 10 years apart. 10/3/50 to 10/3/60.
The significance of 10/3...
I have many fond memories of my gramma. She would bake Christmas cookies for all of her grandchildren - an unbelievable variety of cookies, and box them up in a special Christmas box tied with a red ribbon for all 11 grandchildren. She'd start baking in the summer time! Just to have a perfect box of Christmas cookies for all of her grandkids.
She would also make her special Kuchen - the German word for cake. From scratch, she would make the dough with yeast, let it rise, flatten it out with a rolling pin, and cut up fresh fruit to bake this special Kuchen (cake) with various fruits. Apricot, plum, apple, grape, you name it Gramma could bake it. Check out this link - my mouth waters just thinking about it.
There were many other special moments, like her 100th birthday party in Cleveland (photo from that day with her two daughters).
The last time I spoke with her was on her 101th birthday. I called her from Florida. It took her a while but once she understood it was me calling she was very happy. But she admitted that she was getting tired. I told her, gramma, I don't blame you at all. I love you.
Two years later she died. On her birthday, at 103 years old, she died. Exactly 103 years old. Her grandchildren, exactly 10 years apart, born on 10/3 - and she died at exactly 103 years old. Another 10/3!
John 16:33
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
In times of trouble I remember this passage and I remember my gramma - what she endured, and how she would prevail over her challenges. December 16, 1906 - December 16, 2009. Exactly 103 years old.
I love you gramma. And I'll never forget you...
