My Nana

         A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to go to Boise (just me and Garrett) to visit my Nana for a couple of days. She is 92 years old, and just recently has moved into an assisted living place (somewhat against her will!), but it was for the best. She hasn't been doing great in terms of her health lately, so it was really important that I get out there to see her. It was such a wonderful, bitter-sweet trip. She is such an amazing lady. She has lived to see so much and is honestly one of the wisest and definitely smartest people I know. As a grandmother, she has never missed a birthday and has always made me feel special. When I think of my Nana, I think of so many characteristics. She is an amazing cook and artist, crossword puzzler, advice giver, listener, comedian, the list could continue. She has always had a very quick wit and even now, at 92, continues to make me laugh with her little comments here and there that could be easily missed if you aren't paying attention. She loved getting to meet and hold little Garrett. He brought life into everyone at the facility. She kept repeating to him "Na-na, Na-na" to teach him to say her name. It was really sweet. Saying goodbye was really hard because I don't know that I'll get to see her again in this life. She doesn't want to continue living too much longer as it is really hard for her to not be on her own and not be able to physically do all the things she is used to doing for herself. She reassured me that she believes that there is a better life waiting for her. She misses my Grandpa Bob who passed away 2 1/2 years ago. They truly had an amazing love story that I hope to emulate by the end of my life with my marriage. I was able to tell her how much I loved and admired her, and how I appreciated her being the best Nana anyone could ask for. I pointed out that my little Garrett wouldn't be here if it wasn't for her, and she smiled and said that everything starts with love. I am so blessed to have such an amazing person for my Nana.