I remember helping Grandma hang clothes out to dry in this backyard. I remember Grandpa setting up a badminton set, and my sisters and I gamefully trying to hit the birdie. I remember Grandma teaching me to sing those old Croatian songs she loved so well, and Grandpa letting me stand on his toes as he taught me to dance to them.

I have several very happy memories from my childhood, and I promise to do my best to post them here, so this blog does not become filled with gloom, despair, and agony on me – woe!

I didn’t meet my real grandparents until I was in my late 20’s, but thankfully, these two wonderful people (who were the parents of my mother’s third husband) stepped up to the plate and treated me and my sisters like their own ever since I met them when I was 11 years old. Grandma taught us to bake apple strudel; Grandpa taught us to fish and play pool; and they both taught us the importance of family gatherings around the table, with cards and popcorn and plenty of laughter.

I am simply grateful for the love and influence of these two good souls in my life, who have now joined the angels. I love you Grandma and Grandpa.