Nanny passed away on October 23 two weeks short of the 95th Birthday party we had planned. She would have been 95 on November 10th. I can only imagine the changes she would have seen over that time.
I always had a special bond being the oldest grandchild. She babysat me when I was young and mom and Dad went bowling on Tuesday nights. We would watch the price is right and Laverne and Shirley. She was always sharp right up until the end. She was a voracious reader, and I loved how every time I called her I would say "Hi Nanny, it's Tim" in case she didn't recognize my voice and she would always say "I know who you are Tim, you don't need to remind me!"
We were fortunate enough to spend a full day with nanny a few years ago where we toured her across PEI. I think that memory is the one that will define Nanny for us. We toured Cavendish, had lunch at Island Preserve Company, gave the introduction to CBC news compass, visited Cheryl's parents where Nanny raved about Vernon's biscuits, went for ice cream, supper at Gillis' Drive in and Nanny had a little nap as we made our way back to Summerside. Cheryl put together a photo album that we gave to Nanny that documented the entire day. I am hopeful that we will get that book back as a memory now that she has passed.
Vicki and I got to see Nanny less than 12 hours before she passed. She was frail looking and very weak, but I am glad we got to see her. She lived a good long life, and she was ready to go.
We are heading over to Moncton on Saturday for a graveside ceremony on the same day that we were planning her 95th party. It will be nice to see everyone.
My other favourite memory is playing guitar and singing forever young to Nanny on her 90th birthday. This song has so much meaning to me and will always remind me of Nanny.
Rest in Peace, Nanny. May you stay forever young!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUr5v2aWijw
