January 06, 2008

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.

9 comments:

oddist said...

Sorry again to hear about Ommie, you can tell that she was very important to you. sorry to also hear that your already getting trouble for your desision in clearing her home. Relatives can be a royal pain, i had lots of trouble when my Mom died. Thanx for the comment you just left about my Robot, i think its a great idea to make a card out of him,THANX. great, great,great. I'll let you know when i have something so you can tell me what you think.

High Desert Diva said...

yeah...get on it would ya? :)

after you list it on Etsy, I'll feature it in my favorite item of the day spot on my blog

thanks for taking the time to condole...

Chris Stone said...

So sorry to hear about your Grandmother! When my grandmother died I inherited her china, silverware, and her sewing machine. I'm not really a china and silverware type person but am keeping it nicely boxed for the next generation...

But the sewing machine is an old treadle Singer that if I could figure out how to thread the belt thingie I'd definitely use it. My grandmother taught me how to sew on it. Its a beautiful rememberence.
My grandfather was a carpenter and had lots of great tools. Because my mother was trying to be fair to all relatives, those fabulous tools were sold in a garage sell. She regrets it now. I wish I had just one hammer of his!

Good luck with everything, and peace.

Auntie Joy said...

You would be my first choice if I needed a complicated project excuted! Maybe "they" are "transfering" their grief... I think I know how it feels to be the bad guy.. No matter how you do it someone will be irritated...Hang in there no one could do a better job!
JOY!

Unknown said...

It sounds like you had so much in common - both sentimental, caring, crafty ladies :) I wish you the best in taking on this responsibility and don't worry about the ruffled feathers, she chose you for special reasons and you will do right by her by DOING this right :) ~ Jenn

Hey Harriet said...

I'm also very sorry to hear about your Grandmother. Try not to let people get you down (yeah I know, easier said than done) - Be strong & keep your focus on all the good times you spent with your Gran. Sounds like you have some beautiful memories to treasure. Sending lots of cyber hugs & positive vibes your way! Take care :)

Anonymous said...

You are such a strong Woman Charmaine! Always here if you need to chat.

Janell

Anonymous said...

Dear Charmaine,

If you want, I can make a memory quilt with some of the fabrics. Since your family is so big, you may have to timeshare it out!

Let me know. I'll pay postage. Let me know your email and I'll send my snail addy.

Aloha,
Hugs,
Cousin Ruth in Alaska

High Desert Diva said...

Ruth,
I have a box of fabric started for you. Also some things of your dad's and a book written by your mom. Louise has my mom's e-mail. Do you want to send mom your e-mail addy? I'll get it from her.
thanks,
Charmaine