Five years ago, Old Gertrude went home to Heaven.
Today I mourn the loss of a good friend.
Her Love was the purest form.
Her forgiveness was up to date.
Her loyalty — uncompromising.
And I don’t wish her back.
Never!
But sometimes, the smell of Scrapple frying–
The first fire in the pellet stove in Autumn-
The sight of her Santa Claus that still sings “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town”–
Hearing and seeing jingle bells tied to velvet red bows —
And setting up the Christmas tree-
These things remind me of a severely handicapped old lady
Whose presence in our home
Changed us all
And made us better people.
Delaware Grammy 
So hard to believe that Gertrude has been gone for five years. I can just see her looking through her glasses and giving a big toothy grin. She always charmed me and made me smile. Thanks for the memory.
What a nice tribute to an amazing lady.
((hugs)) I never knew old Gertrude. She must’ve been a very special lady. As are you. 🙂
Surprised me, you did, that it’s been 5 years. Bless you for this tribute and remembrance.mw