I was sitting here at my desk, working ( which is the job I have now for the next two weeks with my broken foot) and suddenly I believe it all processed that I lost my dear Aunt Gracie.
A funny realization I had was that I always remember Aunt Gracie old. There was never a time in my life when I saw her young so a part of me; I think a part of all of us; assumed she'd just always be around. She's always been strong, always youthful and always with a glass of wine..
There was no one more pure of heart than Grace Medaglia. Her hugs were pure, her heart was the size of planet Earth and her love of life and family was incomparable. She appreciated every single day and took joy in every member of her family. My father in particular was always moved to a young boy when Aunt Gracie was around, my opinionated mother quiet to listen to everything she had to say, my stoic brother amused by every moment she made, my adorable sister enthralled when she was around. We were thankful for every McDonald's gift card, Christmas card, birthday card and call we would receive. I don't know how an event can go by now without her or without hearing a loud, "I love you, too" at the end of a phone call..
I was scrolling through photos today and thanked God above that I have these photos to cherish..
I can see her little face poking through the crowd smiling at my dad and I walking down the aisle. I didn't realize how important this photo would be to me until now.
My cousin Jane brought Aunt Gracie onto the dance floor. My sister and I each grabbed a hand and danced. She was so little and smiling. I again didn't realize how important this photo would be. Which is the way I feel about alot of these photos filled to the brim with faces I love and care about.
Paul and I knew from the moment we got engaged that we wanted a big wedding with everyone there. Even if that meant planning through nursing school, deployment, and any other added stress: we were doing this because there is only one day in your life where you can have everyone you love in one room. We got that day and I'm so thankful that Aunt Gracie was able to be there. It wouldn't have been the same without her. It won't be the same without her.
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