Responsibilities

Executor, n. a person named by a decedent in his or her will to carry out its provisions.

My grandmother named me co-executor of her will. Yesterday, I made my first decision: to begin clearing out my grandmother's house, starting tomorrow. It seems feathers are already ruffled.

We all handle grief differently. I need to do something...physical, tangible...just...something. Emotionally, this will be extremely difficult for me. My grandmother and I had a very strong bond. She loved me unconditionally. She was everything to me.

"Grief. The pain now is part of the happiness then. That's the deal."
- C.S. Lewis

Years ago, Ommie and I went through her china cabinet. She had certain pieces she wanted to go to certain individuals, so we decided to label every item. Not only a treasure from her, but specifically chosen for each loved one, by her.

Sentimental...that's my family. I plan on boxing up all the other personal items, so we can sort through them all together. The remainder? (and there's so much more...) I plan to categorize and work out the best place to donate.

Her sewing room is formidable. That will be my first task. Ommie loved to sew. She has mountains of fabric, thread, yarn, supplies. I like the idea of the fabric being used (possibly) to make quilts/blankets for the needy. My sister Cherelle suggested donating it to a church in Vernonia as there's a group of ladies there who do just that. Vernonia is one of the towns in the Northwest recently hit hard by a severe storm. The town flooded, and many homes were ruined. Vernonia is also the town who banded together and helped my sister Cherelle and her husband Gary after their house burned down. The townspeople were very generous with time, donations, and love.

I will stay focused. Ommie chose me to do this. I will honor her by doing it well.