Hello, dear friends! With this post we reach the end of the heartwarming memory: grandparents series. I've said in so many words this week that reading all the memories, both in the posts and comments as well, has served as reminder, companion, friend, and guide. I know when I reflect on the beginning of this last journey with my grandfather I'll think of how so much of what you shared was woven into my thoughts and actions, how all you shared left me comforted, stronger and inspired to live out the last of our memories to the fullest. I'll be sharing memories of my grandfather with you from time to time, as we continue this journey together. Love to you all, dear friends.
And now, the last of our posts...
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From Nikole Herriott
my great grandmother was maggie,
but we called her our nan.
she came on a ship that bobbed in the sea.
and she told me that story, more times than just once.
i was eager i remember,
i wanted to hear every bit.
flags waving, planks creaking and people jumping aboard
prepared for a journey from ireland to here,
from a life they could imagine to one they could not.
she told me of bunk beds, of breakfasts and of life down below.
of shiny decks and dank cabins and what they would eat.
of the sadness and joy and the small bits in between.
of captains and shipmates and babies that cried.
and of the ocean, and wind, and the days out at sea.
of trunks in her hands and wind through her hair,
ginger back then and filled with big bounce.
but gleaming and white when we very first met.
she's a memory that glitters and makes my eyes shine.
one of childhood and fun and hot meals from the stove.
of bedtimes that were late and of cookies from a tin.
of cooked carrots, sweet biscuits, and sourdough bread.
of playtime and baking and all that is good,
a memory of perfection in a five foot frame.
that's for you nan,
i so wish you were here
i've got so much good i'd tell you.
xox, n.