It hurt me to see her body change. The disease was rapidly taking over. She was still Nana, but it was obvious she was dying. She was frail yet so full of life. It was hard masquerading and hiding my pain. I hated the thought of losing her. When I felt sad I thought about my mother. After all, she was losing her mother. I prayed for them both.
It was as if God prepared Nana for her journey. She wasn't bitter or angry. She didn't feel sorry for herself. Her heartache was for our pain.
I spent quality time with my Nana in September, October, and November. November was my mother's birthday and Nana's last Thanksgiving. We had a lot to be thankful for but time was swiftly running out.
December the hospital bed arrived as did the last days of my Nana's life. Those days were rich and full of laughter. Nana kept her sense of humor. One day she lit a cigarette and I objected. She glared at me with her piercing eyes and smiled, "Cynthia Lynne, are you kidding?"
Nana stayed coherent and enjoyed every precious moment with her loved ones. Nana didn't want to let go, she had a strong will to live. My mother told her, "God has a better plan for you. We don't want to lose you, but you are the chosen one."
Nana was a perfect patient. My mother was honored and blessed to take care of her mother. It was a humbling experience. It was her gift to Nana. With her daughter by her side, December 12th 1984, Nana moved to Heaven. She left us with love and many cherished memories.
Thank God we spent Christmas of '83 with Nana. She invited us to her Buena Park home for an unforgettable Christmas. There were four generations and their families. Nana glowed with the Christmas spirit. She was radiant. She was happy to see her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her harvest came home.
Her flocked Christmas tree was picture perfect as was her festive house and decorative table. Nana's elegant holiday table was fit for royalty. The meal was superb. Nana enjoyed cooking. She treated our taste buds to turkey and the trimmings.
For dessert she made homemade pies and a variety of homemade candy. Nana spoiled us with gifts, good food, and love. We had no clue it was her last Christmas.
Merry Christmas to you, God bless you and yours. Make a good memory.
