Grandma Lula passed away 11/28/07. Most of us were able to attend the funeral (Juliette, Polly, and Andrew couldn't make it), and it was very nice to see everyone. Some of the anecdotes that were told:

Gigi told of staying with grandma and having lots of fun with her as a teenager. Grandma would stay up late with them and giggle like a 13 year old. Grandpa would call from the bedroom "Lula, quit acting like a teenager and come to bed!" She would continue to giggle as her false teeth would about fall out.

After Gigi snuck out of her window a few times, she tells how grandma never confronted her about it, she would just do an "end-around", and she nailed her window shut.

Gigi's and her friend kept sneaking out the front door to the freezer room to eat ice cream -- straight from the container. After a few times, one night they found two bowls and two spoons sitting on the freezer.

Everyone told of how hard she worked and saved. She was supremely frugal with money and learned to do without and to make something out of nothing. She was a good example to all of us how to live simply.

We drove 24 hours total to get there and back, but it was worth it. We had a good time together as a family on the way, and it really wasn't too bad. I'm sure it was a memorable experience for everyone.

There are some pictures of our trip here: http://www.meteorbike.com/2007_12_04