The mention of oak leaves in our family always brings a giggle and groan out of each of the members.
The home that Grandma (or “Grams” to most of us) lived in since the 1930’s sits on a sizeable lot overhung by towering and numerous oak trees planted (I am sure) back when time began! Every autumn when the wind blew cold and finally brought down the last of the oak leaves, as many family members as were available would gather under the swaying giants and rake….and rake….and rake…and rake.
I cannot see an oak leaf and not be reminded of those marvelous days of laughter, children under enormous raked piles , the smell of the crisp leaves, the wonderful aroma of hot chocolate in Gram’s cozy little yellow bungalow, and her gracious giggle of delight to have us all tumble in her back door, leaves and all!
Grams was 99 years old when we buried her this week and our family spent sweet hours reminiscing countless stories over the five generations that came to honor her life. Just as the leaves keep falling this brisk autumn day and will for countless years to come, her legacy will go forth in our lives, our children’s lives, and their children’s live. That’s comforting!
“When an oak is felled, the whole forest echoes with its fall, but a hundred acorns are sown in silence by an unnoticed breeze” Thomas Carlyle
2 comments:
Hello:
It is always sad when a close relative dies, but there is certainly comfort in knowing that the life was well lived and the love of family is there as a support. 99 years is an amazing achievement and how wonderful to be remembered as the mighty OAK!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Thank you, Jane and Lance. You are kind and thoughtful with your words. Out of the five generations that comprised our family up until this week, she was the remaining survivor of the "first" and very special. Thank you for your comment!
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