Reflecting & Smiling

For the past couple of days, I have been reflecting, remembering & smiling about a lot of WONDERFUL memories I had with two very special people -- my grandparents. I think of them often and miss them dearly. Well, earlier this week, my grandfather's best friend, Marvin Herman Wiede, passed away at the age of 92. I knew him very well through my grandparents. He was like a part of our family as well. Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend his memorial service to give my condolences in person to his wife -- of 69 years -- Lillian, and the remainder of his family. I did, however, sign the obituary guest book in the Victoria Advocate with permission for anyone to contact me via e-mail if they so wished. Well, last night I noticed I had an e-mail in my "Junk" folder (it came through as Spam); and it was from Mr. Wiede's granddaughter Ashli H. Here is what she said:

"Hi, Melanie. My name is Ashli, and I am Marvin's grand daughter. I just wanted to thank you for your kind note. It's so funny that I read it tonight. My mom and I were just talking about who probably greeted him in heaven, and she felt sure it was Erna and Herbert, "speaking perfect German," and I wondered if they would be reuniting with their coffee buddies at a McDonalds or a Dairy Queen. We are lucky to have had such wonderful grandparents."

It really made me feel good to know that others still remember/think of my grandparents as well as their own -- especially when they are grieving. I am glad I had my whole childhood and part of my adulthood enjoying, knowing & loving my grandparents. I deeply treasure those memories. I only regret that Zach never got a chance to know his "Great Granny & Great Pops." (He was only 16 months when Granny passed away; and 20 months when Pops passed away.) Actually, I regret it more...I'm sure Granny could tell me some stories/what to expect w/Zach because he is EXACTLY like my father...a clown and always cutting up!!! YIKES!