Missing Gram today

I wonder how long it takes before you get over the loss of someone you love. And I mean someone you really love. My mom says the answer is never. I will always have happy memories of Grandma and she will always be a part of me. No, the loss isn't as raw as when it first happened, but there are definitely events (pregnancies, births, first birthdays); places (Mom's, camp); and things (Red Rose tea, strawberry jam, yellow roses, white haired little-old-ladies) that make me remember and make me sad. I try to focus on the positive things in my life instead, but there are days like today, Gram's birthday, when the sad feelings just can't be avoided. I will do my best -- for Gram -- to remember all the happy times we shared, but I know I will also be thinking about the loss I feel. Yes, I will probably call Mom and have a good cry too, but perhaps I'll muster the courage to end the day with a cup of tea and a pepperidge farm cookie in Gram's honor. Some extra hugs and kisses from Emma Mary will certainly help keep a smile on my face too...