~GRAMBO~

I wrote this poem for my Grandma on her 90th birthday. She is such an inspiration to me. I have been so blessed to have her in my life. There are so many memories I have with her. I am so grateful that my children have been able to have a close relationship with her. Especially Katie. They bonded instantly and to this day share a wonderful friendship. She is turning 92 this year in September. I nicknamed her "Grambo" when I was a teenager because she is strong and a fighter. I wanted to have a special name that was all her own. She has overcome so many obstacles in her life. At the time Rambo had come out and my cousin Ted and I were joking around about having a picture of Grandma with a machine gun in hand and bullets across her chest. You have to know our humor. Well, it stuck and all these years later she is affectionately called Grambo. She even signs her cards to all of us that way. This poem says it all for me. I love you Grambo!

My Grandma

Born and raised

In a home filled with love

Adversity after adversity

She would somehow rise above

Through it all

She is always giving

No matter how hard

She keeps on living

Transcending the years

A sea of emotions felt

With faith so strong

Enduring the hand she has been dealt

Generations of lives

That have tenderly been molded

A compassion so deep

As it is lovingly unfolded

A treasure so valued

Beyond compare

A woman so special

We are truly blessed to share

For my beloved Grambo on your 90th birthday ~ Love always, Alli September 7, 2006