Grandma Merrill

While we were engaged, Keith took me to visit his Grandma and Grandpa Merrill here in town. I was nervous. For some reason meeting the grandparents was more nerve-racking than meeting the parents. That feeling only lasted until we entered their home. Family pictures, roses, and lovely figurines decorated the house. Doilies laid on end tables and chairs. I don't know what it is about doilies that make me feel at ease. They remind me of my Grandma Earl and the feeling of quiet happiness and comfort in her home. Another thing caught my eye as the four of us sat down to in the front room; an afghan. I commented on its beauty to Grandma Merrill and mentioned my long time desire to learn to crotchet. That sweet lady immediately offered to teach me.

Thankfully I took her up on her offer. She taught me how to make dish rags, then we moved on to a baby afghan and I even tried a baby bootie. She told me that once I finished the main portion of the afghan, she would help me with the edge. Several times throughout the summer Keith and I would visit Grandma and Grandpa Merrill. I would show her may latest efforts and she would give me pointers. After that she would beat Keith at a few rounds of Wii bowling and Grandpa Merrill would come in and chat. A few hours later we would leave smiling, giggling, and sorry to go. I had adopted another set of grandparents, and I couldn't have been happier.

Grandma Merrill passed away this morning. I, along with many, am grateful for the time I had to get to know her. I have a baby afghan with it's edge missing in the corner of the living room. I am not sure where to go with it from here. The summer was too short. I want to go over for another visit.

Each Grandma is precious. They see in us the beautiful things that we didn't know were there. They love us, spoil us, teach us, and uplift us. I am thankful that Grandma Merrill took me in and was a grandma to me. Even if just for a summer.