Grandma Mary

We were all pretty young when we lost Grandma to cancer, so this story is hardest for me to write. Grandma sang with Grandpa in the church choir in Golden, but I am told she was extremely shy. That is why it's so impressive that Grandpa gave her credit for his "overwhelming compulsion" to become a minister. He wrote that when he told Grandma about his desire to minister, she said "That is what I have been praying for". Grandma wanted what was best for Grandpa, and her Church, and God, above what was most comfortable for her. Minister's wives traditionally led the choir and played the organ, but Grandma felt those things were not for her to do.

Something I noticed while writing about Grandpa, was, when would Grandma have had time to volunteer? Grandpa George was so involved with the community, often with Dad and Uncle Bill in tow, someone had to be home with Auntie Shirley! There were not as many opportunities for women, either. There were no Girl Guides or Brownies, and women weren't allowed to be fire fighters. They seldom ran for office, or served on public boards. They served behind the scenes.

Still, I remember the sock monkeys and hobby horses that she made for us (and the Church bazaars). I remember the sound of her voice, calling my brother 'wee Geordie". I remember her at the cabin in Windermere, happy to be surrounded by family. And I remember her soprano singing voice - I thought she made the most beautiful music in the world.