This has been a tough one, and it's taken me a while to focus on sitting down to tell the story of my Grandmama. Grandmama. Not sure what that was all about, or where that came from! It just seemed right that she would be not just Grandma, but Grandmama. She was really special, a real character. Grandmama, or Maudie, Mary, Sista, Fraudie, Fraudulent Maudulent - depending on who you asked. She could be a "real tough visit," as one family friend pointed out. But she could also be... the best.

I have so many wonderful memories of Grandmama, going back to when she used to babysit us at our old Carmel house, or her condo, which we thought was so fabulous. The rules were few, and the BonBons were many. We were excited to try on her shoes and jewelry, and use her makeup (she had SO much makeup!) We even loved watching "Meet Me in St. Louis" on these occasions - and that was really a terrible movie. I will remember countless Thanksgivings at Grandmama's, where she always complained that the food was no good. But it was always terrific. More than the food, though, it was the whole atmosphere - warm, loud, delicious-smelling - that created such a special feeling that will stay with me forever.

Grandmama always said her and I were "simpatico" - I never really understood, or necessarily agreed with this! But now as I think of it, it gives me great comfort. I was her sweet girl, and she adored me, along with my children, husband, sister and cousin. And we adored her. Despite - or maybe because of - the fact that she called my son Patrick (his name is Antonino.) I'll give it to her - he really does look like a "Patrick." 

She was always so concerned about how she looked, and I think secretly proud that she looked so darn good, even as she got on in years. Between the lipstick, the hair and her ever-changing glasses, I was always complimenting her on something or other. But the funny thing is, the best thing about Grandmama wasn't how she looked, but who she was and how she made us all feel. 

Grandmama, we love you and will miss you very much. But we know you're up there holding court; and someone at this moment is probably being asked how your "do" looks, and saying "it looks great!" So, I think you're in good hands. 

xoxo,

Tar