Going to Grandma's

When Ben and I were growing up, we moved around a lot. By the time we moved to Clarksville, it was our 10th move in 10 years. I had been to school in 4 different states (MS, GA, AK, TN) by the time I was in 4th grade. We didn't move every year, but the longest place we lived was for about 2 years. It sounds bad, but I really don't remember moving that much. Most of it was done when I was pretty young. Dad worked really hard working his way up through the company and together he and mom made a lot of sacrifices for Ben and I so that when we got older we could stay in one place. Mom made everything fun and adventurous no matter what the situation and she and dad made every place feel like home.

No matter where we lived, Ben and I always spent time with my grandparents in MS. Most of the time was during the summers. I would sometimes spend up to two weeks with Mamaw and Papaw during the summer up until I was in high school. I loved going to spend time with them. Mamaw kept children in her home when I was little and I loved getting to be her "helper". I probably slowed her down more than "helped" her, but she never made me feel that way. She knows how to make anyone feel special and loved, especially her grandchildren. It's a gift.

They live in rural MS in a city where up until a few years ago there was not even a McDonald's. The only chain resteraunt they had was "the Sonic", not just Sonic but "the Sonic". It's a very small town where everyone knows everyone. And to me... it seems everyone knows my grandparents and my dad. They are respected people and it would always (and still does) make me proud to be introduced as Steve's daughter.

I remember Mamaw telling me there would be a time when I would be too busy to come and visit her like I was used too. "No way" I would say. I couldn't imagine not going to see her in the summers. She was right. I grew up. But I treasure the memories.