About seven years ago my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimers. True to the nature of this crippling disease, she is bedridden and doesn't call our names. Luckily, we have wonderful memories of a gentle and loving grandmother. I never heard her gossip or complain. She wasn't spoiling or doting but creative and hardworking. Her husband, "Granddaddy" passed away in September. She cried when my mom told her he had died. I often wonder if she wishes she could join him in heaven.
My grandmother's name is Annie Ray. It only seemed right for her to have a namesake. I hope my Annie Grace is exactly like my grandmother. Last week Annie Grace and I joined Mom on her weekly trip to Troy. I wanted to introduce Annie to Annie. When we arrived at my grandparent's house, the sitter told us that Annie holds Annie Grace's birth announcement all the time. When I went into her room, she had the announcement (it has a picture) propped up on her legs and the paper was bent and faded where she had rubbed the words off. Even though Annie hasn't made a logical statement in six years, I have no doubt that her mind still operates. I layed Annie Grace in my grandmothers lap and she rubbed her legs, smiled and talked baby talk. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
