On this day, 8 years ago, the world lost a diamond. Nan was one of the most kind, compassionate, adventurous woman I knew. Some day, I hope to be just like her. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about her.
I threw away a bunch of cards last night, but kept all of the cards of relatives who have died. In the last few years of Nan’s life, I noticed a trend when it came to X-mas. Even though I was in transition and just spiritual from 2010 until her death, she knew I didn’t celebrate Christmas. Instead, she gave me holiday cards that didn’t say “Merry Christmas.” She gave me “Happy Holiday” cards that spelled out her love for me. I never noticed it until last night. Nan always accepted me for who I was and she didn’t have any expectations of who she wanted me to be, she loved me for who I am. I know she would be so proud of me now.
I’m verklempt and I really miss Nan. 8 years and it still feels like yesterday. Time hasn’t healed me, I still feel lost without her.
Here are some songs that remind me of Nan:
Love and miss you, Nan! Until we meet again…
The Happiness Box Project 
Hi, Jessica Marie!
I too am verklempt, dear friend. I have been with you through nearly every one of these sad anniversaries. You were so very fortunate to have had a great influence like Nan in your life, and I do hope you will strive to model her behavior and follow her example in the years to come. Clearly Nan listened to you, tried to understand you and accommodated you as you went through phases and changes. She didn’t judge, didn’t preach. She gave love unconditionally. She truly was a gem. She reminded me of The Ettlines, John and Helen, because they maintained the same type of relationship with their teenage patrons at the Shady Dell. I know you still miss Nan bitterly and feel lost without her, but think of what she would want for you going forward. She would want you to take the inspiration she offered and put it to use helping others who feel lost. By sharing Nan’s goodness with others you will honor her.
Thanks for sharing the musical memories related to Nan. I am familiar with Pepino the Italian Mouse but not Dominick the Donkey. They are cute children’s songs, and I take it Nan introduced them to you when you were very young. It’s cool that Nan liked Miami Sound Machine and Celine.
Dedicate your life to Nan, dear friend Jessica Marie. How lucky you were to have known and loved her and to have had the benefit of her wisdom.
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