Grandma Hill

My beloved grandmother passed away on April 20, 2015.

It was definitely a bitter-sweet day. For the last twenty years, she has been in pain. It's comforting to know that she is now pain-free and in a better place.

My grandma lived a selfless life. She focused her efforts and gave all her energy to others and her family. She loved being a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother! I may have been one of almost 40 grandkids, but I always felt unique around her. She had the ability to love all of her grandkids in a specific, exceptional way. Because of her, my mom developed an appreciation for motherhood, then passed that appreciation and love on to me. I am certain that she continues to show her love and serve others on the other side.

I have kept and cherish several gifts that she gave me. Whether it was a book, a picture, or clothing, she always managed to make it look extra special, adding lace, ribbon, calligraphy, you name it! She did it all. Grandma Hill was extremely talented. Her paintings were magnificent. I am hopeful that my kids will inherit some of that talent!

Grandma was beautiful, inside and out.

This picture was taken when Grandma and Grandpa met Grant for the first time... Also, the last time I was with her.

We arrived in Boise, with my parents, on a Sunday evening.

The kids immediately took advantage of my Grandpa's awesome yard!

We slept at Mike and Cassie's house. The kids gave up their beds and rooms, so nice of them!!

Grant enjoyed the tunnels, slides, and lightsabers...

The next morning we headed back over to Grandpa's house to play on the slip n' slide and hang out with family.

Shae was sure excited to be reunited with Savannah! 

That afternoon was the viewing. A very small portion of Grandma's beautiful paintings were displayed.

Trevor was Grant's buddy for the few days we were there.

So fun to see Tara and meet her new baby, MJ!

Brad, Katelyn, and Aubrey drove all the way from Bakersfield California! It was so wonderful seeing them. I have missed that sweet baby girl!

Taryn is also expecting soon!! So exciting to see all of these great grandkids being added to the mix.

The next day was the funeral and Brian and Shaun were with us! Love this picture of my sweet grandpa loving on Grant and Brian's arm around my grandpa. Family is a great thing.

Shae loved hanging out with her Uncle Shaun. He was sweet enough to keep her by his side.

Nothing sweeter than watching the grandkids carry their grandmother's casket. This is a group of great men right here!

My Grandma made these roses. Grandpa wore them the entire time.

I loved interacting with my great aunt Maureen (Grandma's sister). She's a wonderful lady!

Seven girls and one boy... They are hilarious.

Even though a few could not make it, this is still a big bunch of grandkids and great-grandkids! Such an incredible legacy my grandmother left!

Grant decided to show some raw emotion... ;)

After the funeral and graveside service, we headed back to the church where the relief society had prepared lunch for all of the family.

One of my highlights of the trip was meeting ten out of the twelve brothers and sisters in Grandpa's family. They were hilarious and a joy to be around. 

I can't believe how big Aubrey is!

Five out of the eight great grandkids... love Annie's face in this one... chaos :)

My Grandpa is a saint. I love his enthusiasm and love for life. I am looking forward to spending much more time with him in the future. He has a long life ahead of him!

I am so glad I was in Boise for this funeral. It was an absolute blast reuniting with my aunts, uncles, and cousins. I know that my grandma wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

I love and miss you, Grandma.