As tradition goes, we made gingerbread houses at the Kendall's house. Every year I enjoy watching Paul and his brothers come up with new and exciting ideas for houses. Every year it get's more and more exciting. This year James built a tower and a pony for his daughter, Paul built a house with two wings, and Jenny built a house with a porch. I didn't actually get pictures of decorating because it was a couple days later, but it was even more exciting than putting them together. Anne has a talent for getting just the right treats.
This trip was also special because we got to spend some extra time with Grandma McVea. We roasted s'mores together and talked, and she always smiled as she passed by us play games and building houses. She slept quite a bit because she wasn't feeling well, but we enjoyed every minute that we got to spend time with her. Over the years Audrey has grown so fond of Grandma. She has spent time reading with her and playing with her, and has received countless letters with stickers. Grandma always gave the best hugs and called herself the sticker Grandma.
She got really sick after our first few days in Utah. The last night before she passed away we were all pretty sure she was going to go. I couldn't help but cry as I watched Paul come in the kitchen from saying goodbye. He doesn't cry often so I knew it was especially difficult for him to say goodbye to someone close to him. I was going to keep Audrey away from it all. I remember being vaguely traumatized by death when I was younger and I didn't want her to be right in the thick of it. Not too long after I expressed my thoughts quietly to Paul about this, Audrey looked up at me and said...."Mom, can I say goodbye too?" I couldn't say no. I was a little nervous as I brought her in to see Grandma. Grandma had labored breathing and she wasn't really coherent. Audrey asked a lot of questions and we had a good conversation about what was going to happen to Grandma when she left. We've talked at length on this topic but she had never seen it for herself, so I think that brought on a lot of questions.
It was Audrey, Nicole, and I standing there together, we were all telling Grandma that we loved her, when she looked up into our eyes and said I love you too. It was such a special moment for all of us and I think it was really good for Audrey to be able to see her in that way before she said goodbye. I sat and held her hand for a little while after that. I couldn't help but think of the preparation going on to receive her on the other side. I'm sure there were many people waiting for her who love her just as much as we do.
The next morning we got a call that she had passed away. We all cried together when we received the news. She has truly be missed. Since then Audrey has mentioned Grandma every time we talk about heaven or angels. It's sweet to see her have that connection. I hope it sticks and Grandma continues to watch out for her.
After making houses we went to a painting place and painted a few things. It was so fun to watch everyone's creative side come out. I think the highlight of it all was watching the super heroes being painted onto coasters. The kids sat and ooohed and ahhhed over Uncle Grant painting the Hulk.
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