Sunday, September 20, 2009

Auf Wiedersehen


Late Friday afternoon I dug my toes into the warm sand. The beach is unchanged from the days of my childhood and I close my eyes and listen to the roar of the ocean. The tides coming and the wind whips my hair around my face. It's good to be here.

An hour ago my Omi passed away...and somehow words failed me.

Yet, sitting here on a piece of driftwood I remember:

Sitting on two phonebooks at Omi's dining room table when I was just a wee girl.

Her many attempts to teach me to crochet.

The cards and notes she sent me that were always written with a combination German and English.

Walks along the Rogue River.

Trips to this very beach.

I remember that she sent me money for my wedding dress.

And that in every, single wedding photo she is wearing her raincoat.

Holidays, birthdays, beach trips.

Food! Oh heavens there was always food!

I remember when I realized that her breathing had changed and that it wouldn't be long.

Realizing that I was not simply losing my Omi, but what was left of my family.

I recall telephone conversations that were cut short because I had phoned during the airing of her favorite soap opera.

Her love of the National Enquirer (true story folks).

I can hear her sweet, sing-song voice echoing in my mind even as the gulls call from above me.

"I love you Omi."

"I love you too honey."

Rest in peace my dear girl. Thank you for loving me just the way I am. Thank you for loving my Beloved and my children. Thank you for being feisty and waiting to run to Jesus until I got there.

Auf Wiedersehen

8 comments:

A.Marie said...

I am so sorry to read about your Omi passing away...it is so hard to lose someone you love. I'll be thinking about you today!

Sandcastle Momma said...

Oh honey I'm so sorry for your loss. Your Omi sounds like a wonderful woman and you are so fortunate to have had her in your life. She'll be waiting in Heaven for you and watching over you until then.

Sending lots of love and hugs your way.

The Sweet Family said...

Annie,

I am so sorry for your loss.

Take care,
Amy Sweet and Family

Patti said...

that goodness there are those who love us like your omi loved you. they make our journeys easier.

be well...p

Roo said...

I am so sorry for your loss. I know it will leave a tremendous hole in your life, but your memories will always be there.

Love,

Roo ;)

Island Rider said...

I am so sorry. I know those memories of your grandmother will give you pleasure, but am also praying for you as you grieve.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

May your sweet memories and the knowledge you'll see her again comfort you, my friend.

Blessings,
Susan

That Janie Girl said...

Sorry I missed your Omi's passing. I have thought of you often, and I've tried to read posts, but my life has been crazy with the new job. I apologize, I should have dropped by.

I know you both loved each other with a great, passionate love. And that love will keep you until you meet again.