Farewell...

My Grandparents are headed to Utah today for a "trial" run at a retirement center down there. The cost was less and there were a few family weddings in the next vicinity, so they thought it would feel a little like a vacation for them. I went to say goodbye to my Grandma, but she was visiting her friends, so I missed her but did at least get to leave her a note, and Launa had colored she and Grandpa a picture. As I was leaving, I found myself teary-eyed. Just three short years ago when I moved back to Washington, I would go to visit my Grandma and she would seriously outwork me. She could still haul Launa around, and was washing windows, working in the yard, and canning like a mad woman.

I have so many good memories wrapped up in that house. Easter egg hunts, Christmases, Rook tournaments (I was more of a spectator), homemade ice cream and brownies, graham crackers and frosting, raspberries, the tire swing in the back, fresh roses, and just a sense of my Grandmother's warmth and kindness. I wanted to see my cousin, Kimberly, because my memories of my Grandparents house are so entertwined with her. I knew she would have the same memories and probably also be teary-eyed at the thought that Grandma's house would never be quite the same. We are the same age, so we chummed around at Grandma's all the time - so Kimberly, if you read this, I miss you.

Change is supposed to be a good thing, and usually, I am good with change in my own life. However, where things from my childhood have been constant, change is hard. I hope my Grandparents are happy in this new adventure. Launa is going to be Grandma's pen pal and is really excited. But, I think it's going to be a long time until I drive by their house and don't feel a little wistful...