Remembering G-mama

 Last night, while much of America was watching the Super Bowl, I was remembering G-mama.

Yesterday was the one-year anniversary of her passing, so I decided to honor her by making Tin Art. I set out to make something with “the red family,” which was her favorite color according to an “Interview with G-mama.” This is what emerged. I think it’s my favorite piece yet, and the one for which I’m most proud. Here is what it means to me…

 

The Guitar—The guitar represents the sacred moments just after G-mama died. My mom, brother, sister, and I made it to Jacksonville, FL, minutes after G-mama passed. G-mama loved music, so I had taken my guitar to play for her that weekend. We thought we were going to say good-bye, but we had no idea that she would be gone before we got there. My aunt suggested that I play for G-mama anyway. So I did. “How Great Thou Art” and “Precious Lord, Take My Hand.” There was a holy silence in the room while I sang. And I think that, somehow, G-mama was listening.   

 

“Good Eatin’”—G-mama enjoyed a good meal…especially if it included a Bloomin’ Onion!

 

“Naps”—G-mama liked to nap!

 

“Nutrition Facts”—G-mama always let us know if we’d gained some weight :-o!

 

“Decaffeinated Coffee,” black circle, and bridge—G-mama used to have a cup of coffee each morning with her toast and banana…or at least I think she did!

 

Blue lines on the head of the guitar—These are from a chocolate tin. And G-mama loved chocolate! In fact, it was the last thing she ate.

 

Red Background Cookie Tin—G-mama loved dessert! And, as already mentioned, her favorite color was “the red family.”

 

Silver border—This is the back of a Christmas tin. Christmas was always a special time together. And it the last time I saw Gmama before she died.

 

The crazy feeling of the background—The day we drove down to say goodbye was sort of crazy…and the moments after we got there were somewhat hectic…and they are moments that I will never forget.

 

Dear God: Thank you for memories and for the ability to commemorate special days with love, laughter, tears, and art. Be with those who are grieving today—for loss of loved one, relationship, job, health, or dreams—and help us to work creatively with You to make it through. Amen.