Today would have been my grandmother’s birthday…
…in my family, we’re not the most traditional people, at least when it comes to celebrations. Sure, we love Christmas and Thanksgiving like most, but when it comes to big birthday or anniversary blowouts — that’s just not us.
In fact, I forgot (!!!!) to call my mother on Mother’s Day. (Sorry, Mom.)
But for Grandma Kathy’s birthday, we’d come together almost every year to honor her with a few very specific tributes. A lamb, cooked just the way she liked and served with homemade mint sauce. Birthday cards and a nice speech from her husband and sons. Hugs from the grandkids.
Kathy passed away last year, and my parents have now moved into the house where my grandparents used to live. Kathy’s husband, my amazing 97-year-old grandfather, is alive but in failing health. There won’t be a big lamb roast today, and no big family gatherings. I guarantee we’re all thinking about Kathy today, but the birthday celebrations seem to now just be memories.
However, there is one very special way that Kathy’s spirit is being kept alive. A few weeks ago, on the very rocks in coastal Maine where my grandparents spent time together, my brother asked his girlfriend to marry him. And he presented her with a unique gift.
A ring, crafted with the stone that once belonged to Kathy.
They’re planning a very small, family-focused wedding in (you guessed it) Maine, outside the house that not only meant so much to my grandparents, but served as the wedding spot for my own parents. It’s an incredibly full circle moment, and I know it would warm Kathy’s heart to see what’s happening.
You’re missed very much, Kathy.
About Katy
So touching! The ring is beautiful! Glad her memory lives on
Lauren @ Sugar Coated Sisters recently posted..Quirky and Dysfunctional
what a beautiful post <3
*sniff* I’m in tears over here! How touching and awesome! Happy birthday to Kathy!
Julie @ Wearing Mascara recently posted..Private island party
Awww what a sweet post! And a HUGE congrats to your brother
Michelle @ Crazy*Running*Legs recently posted..Terrible Twos
very sweet
I had my grandma’s ring and re-created her engagement ring using her diamond for my ring. I love it! It’s a mix of old & new love. 
A beautiful tribute. Happy Birthday Kathy and congrats to your bro and your soon-to-be sister in law
Kiran @ KiranTarun.com recently posted..Productive
How beautiful. Your grandparents were lovely people! And what a gorgeous ring.
I have family in Maine as well and I love it up there.
Alaina recently posted..BAA 10k
This post is such a lovely tribute. I loved reading it
Valerie @ City|Life|Eats recently posted..{Today’s Lunchbox} No Longer Sniffling
Oh, that’s so sweet!
Coco recently posted..Biting My Tongue