Sureal. Its the only way I can describe my thoughts right now. With our recent engagement, honesly my head has been in the clouds and life has seriously been so cheery and obnoxiously beautiful. So today when I heard Pete's serious voice (which if you know Pete, doesn't come out ever), say, "I have bad news...", I honestly prepared myself for a sarcastic remark. Never did I think that he would proceed to say, "Grandma Richardson passed away today." Millions of thoughts flooded my mind, but at the same time I was stunned and speechless.
She had just emailed us a few days ago, with thoughful words of congratulations on our engagment and joy that although they already considered me part of the family, that it was truly official now. We were hoping to stop by this week, upon her request, to show them the ring and share our story and some of our tentative plans.
There are no words to describe Grandma Richardson's depth of love for her friends and family, and there are so many people missing her right now. Grandma Richardson, and therefore all the Richardson's, love SO BIG, and so OPENLY. That is one solace in all of this for me. That there is no words left unsaid or doubt that we were all blessed to have such an amazing woman in our lives. Even if that did mean that at every family gathering kleenex would be close at hand because everyone wore their heart, love, and appreciation on their sleeves.
I can picture her so vividly, standing up at a family gathering this Fall, with tears in her eyes as she expressed her gratitude and love for her family. The classic story of how she was an only child, and how because of that she grew up knowing she wanted to have a BIG family. She expressed her fufillment in having just that, a big and supportive family. Last night as we all sat around the Richardson household, reminicing, crying, and laughing, that BIG family was there once again. As it always is. I am so incredibly grateful that, from day one, Grandma Richardson, as well as the rest of the family, welcomed me with open arms; and that I was able to come to know Grandma R.
Peter was fortunate to recieve his Afgan from Grandma Richardson this year for Christmas. A gift that, at the time was so meaningful, but now that she is no longer with us, is such a blessing. Additionally for Christmas, Aunt Kathy gave everyone a framed picture of Grandma Richardson's hands, with a brief story and explaination of the beautifuly crafted gifts she creates for her loved ones. I have been mentally clinging to this picture over the last 24 hours; SUCH a cool keepsake. 
The next few days will undoubtably be heavy as we say our goodbyes and lay her to rest, but I have no doubt that the Richardson family will lean on one another, as Shirley taught us, and grow closer from this experience.
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