RIP Grandma Junod

A few days ago my long deceased Grandfather rolled up to the gates of Heaven in a big red Cadillac honking the horn wildly.

"Jane! We're way behind schedule! Let's go!" He hollered through the opened passenger door.

"Oh! OK Dearies, we've got to go!" She smiled as she sprinted to the car. Beaming, she waved good bye as my Grandfather punched the gas peddle. And off they rode into their biggest journey by far.

That's how I picture it anyway. It's a sweet way to remember my Grandma Junod who passed away this week at the age of 96.

My Grandmother was a long time sufferer of MS but carried it's burdens with much grace and dignity. My memories of my Grandmother are mostly of her smiling. I honestly don't remember her being cross with anyone. That is unless they hurt one of her own.

I was lucky to have grown up with lots of uncles, aunts and cousins. A trip to Grandpa and Grandma Junod's meant a day of hard play, great laughter and rule bending. The house allowed for some awesome horseplay, all out of eye shot of our Moms and Dads.

When we were given the "we're leaving in 5 minutes" warning we would appear before our parents with sweaty heads, flushed cheeks and Grape Crush soda mustaches.

Cousin time at Grandma and Grandpa's was the best. Sincerely, those times are some of the sweetest memories of childhood I have.

Grandma wasn't a fussy woman. She honestly didn't fuss about the little stuff and lived with the lightest of hearts. When we were all chasing each other around the house, up one stair case and down another it was fine by Grandma. I really think she reveled in the chaotic upheaval that a bunch of rowdy kids created. I assume that because she never seemed to mind and it always left her with a smile on her face.

My Grandmother will be sorely missed by the many people she helped despite her own impairments.
I rather like the idea of her spirit sprinting free from the weight of MS and blazing off into the brilliant glow of Heaven's sun with my Grandpa...in the big red Cadillac.