Great Grandma’s Outfit

My mom was always smitten with her Grandmother, A. To her, A was the epitome of class, grace, and grandmotherly warmth. She loved how my grandma traveled, how she was a devoted wife especially in times of tribulation, and how she carried herself. When they were in the same room, their giggling made it clear how much they adored one another. In the summer of 2013, my mom planned a 2,000 motorcycle trip–to Great Grandma’s house, just so we could have dinner there. Any time she knew A. would be present at a family event, my mother put special emphasis on our attendance and how we composed ourselves. She truly venerated her.

Browsing through photos from my mother’s funeral service, I came across one of my grand grandma A, and it stopped my endless scrolling.

“Dear Mom,

This is the outfit that Great Grandma wore to your funeral. I think you would like it as much as I do. She looks really classic and adorable.

She wasn’t supposed to outlive you, but you know that already.

Love,

Amelia”