“A matter of fact lady.” My grandma on my dad’s side was called this by one of the relatives at her funeral. It has stuck with me because it was so true.
My grandma grew up in a time that was not easy in our country. She was only a girl when her mother died, leaving her to be the cook and maid for her father and brothers, who were farmers. She married, gave birth to five boys and two girls, and raised them through “The Dirty Thirties.” Two of the boys went through basic training in order to fight in World War II, but both were killed in separate car accidents before deployment.
My grandpa and grandma went separate ways when my dad was a teenager, but never divorced. Grandpa kept supporting Grandma throughout his life. During her life, Grandma faced many hardships, but she opened her heart to her family and friends. Ready with a cup of coffee and a word of wisdom or advise, a warm chuckle and a playful smack on a grandchild’s behind, and an attitude that life was to be enjoyed.
I was one of the younger grandchildren, and by my time, Grandma didn’t cook or bake as much as she had earlier in her life. She passed on her rhubarb pie recipe, which I still use, and my parents tell me that she was a wonderful cook. I do remember that her simple meals were delicious, even if they were just hamburgers, vegetables, and potatoes. And I remember her homemade syrup over pancakes!
Grandma took each day as it came, and made the best of it. She was a “matter of fact lady,” and as an adult, I have aspired to be like her. I think many in her generation were. When I am faced with a difficulty, it helps me to think about what my grandma would have done. I hope that this blog will become a place for me to share something of myself, and hopefully help some of you on your journey.
My grandparents and their children – ca. 1944