Grandmas

Jaremy and I both have a grandmother still living. On Sunday we went to visit them. Grandma Martena Butler is in a nursing home in Brigham City. Grandma Zola Keller still lives at home in Honeyville. They both mean a lot to us. They have given us their love unconditionally since we were born. They have made our lives richer by their kindness, food, smiles, hugs, compliments, encouragement, perspective, cookies, and conversations. It seems we could do no wrong in their eyes. And because of this we didn't want to do anything to disappoint them. Both Grandmas are old now. Both wonder why they are still living. Both still try to be positive, but the golden years are laced with lead.

Neither grandma has ever been, shall we say, driven. As far as I can tell they loved and served their families, but kind of let life take them along. Now they are old and both say ready to die. I have seen other people age differently. They seem gun-hoe right up to the end. They are excited about life, serving others, and improving upon themselves until they kick the bucket. It seems they enjoy life, even with the trials age brings.

I have planned my life until I'm 113 years old. I need at least that much time to make a dent in all the things I want to do. I have an extensive bucket list. Of course, I understand when you don't feel well, or hear or see or touch or smell or taste well it is hard to feel enthusiastic about anything. But I want to push myself and make a difference until I slip on the banana peel into the grave. Of course, I might realize aging is way harder than I thought and find our grandmas did better than I will. But I hope to be healthier and more active at their age, because I'm a lot healthier and more active than they were at my age. But life is unpredictable, but I love it!!! And once again I'm so grateful for the love and kindness these two dear women have showered on us. That is much more important than having goals for yourself until you are 113. I hope my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren feel as loved by me as I do them.