Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Taking a bloggy vacation ...

Disclosure: You may want to grab tissues.

Many of you know that this past week has been a difficult one for my family. Last Monday my grandmother was placed into a Hospice Home, where she would spend her last days. We were unsure of how fast or slow this process may be, so my family took the good days with the bad days and appreciated the time they spent by her side. I unfortunately was home in Florida while this was happening back in Maryland. I felt comfortable with my decision to stay put and wait for the news. I had a wonderful visit with my grandmother (at the rehabilitation center) at the end of last month and I decided that was the way I wanted to remember her.

On Sunday she passed away with family at her side. She finally let go of the fight and went to be with her loving husband. He's been waiting for her, I just know it.

Since my Grammy was put in the hospital on New Years Day, this has been a long journey for her and for her loved ones. I must say that during this time, I have never felt so confident in my faith in God. I spent so much time praying ... praying for strength, healing, for a full recovery. Then I changed my prayers ... I handed the whole situation over to Him, for He is in full control. Even though it's a time of loss, I feel so at peace with Grammy's passing. It was comforting to have Him walk this out with me. I'm going to miss that woman like crazy, but I know she's in a much better place.

I have many memories (and tons of pictures) that I hold close to my heart and am so happy to have captured a video of her and Abby. (Abby was 6 months old)


"With your final heartbeat,
kiss the world goodbye.
Then go in peace
and laugh on glory's side.

And fly to Jesus,
Fly to Jesus
Fly to Jesus ... and Live."

-Chris Rice
(Google this song if you've never heard it.
I love it.)

Abby & I are heading to Maryland tomorrow and will get back on Sunday and I'm taking a bloggy vacation! Thanks to everyone for all your prayers and keep them coming! :)

Photobucket

8 comments:

Carol said...

I'm praying with you and your family as you grieve and celebrate Grammy's life.

Anonymous said...

Liz- I have always looked to this saying in times of grieving my loved ones and hope you will find some comfort in it too. "Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings, where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy." So look up at the starry sky tonight and I bet you will see her. Love ya!

Sue said...

So touching and such a wonderful tribute to your Gram. I know she is dear to you and you'll miss her. It's wonderful that you have such a precious video to look back on and listen to her voice as she plays with Abby who always manages to put a big smile on your face and in your heart. May God's peace be with you and your entire family. Hugs and Kisses

nomo wino daph said...

I am so sorry for your loss. You're in my thoughts & prayers.
(((HUGS))) and safe travels sweetie.
XO

Anonymous said...

Many prayers for you and your family. It's so awesome to know that we have such a loving God who will comfort us and walk us through the difficult stuff.

Michelle & Jimmy Rivas said...

Liz, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. You wrote beautiful words for your grandmother. Cherish all the memories you have with her! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family...

Unknown said...

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Many prayers from me for you and your family.

Tiffany said...

My prayers are with your family!

Our grandmother was placed in Hospice's care the Friday before Valentine's Day. We lost her on Valentine morning. She's been so ready to be with the Lord, she's known all along where she was going and wanted to experience it for herself. She also went to be with her husband, whom left to be with the Lord 22 years ago. It's always hard to lose someone, but watching them go is oh so hard to do.