In 1928 the world became a little better place, welcoming into it a baby girl….Ruth. In the small Ohio town of Fremont, she was welcomed into a family as a daughter, and though she was adopted, she was treated as one of their flesh and blood. She would grow and eventually marry a charming young farmer, Charles, some 10 years her senior. Her life story wraps around many decades, through many trials, heartaches, happiness and love, 6 children, and pig farm. It began the story of my life, Ruth being my grandmother. This month she turned 80 years young. Her story is one that captivates me, as her strength and determination is one to mimic and respect.
Growing up, I recall many days visiting Grandma Ruth at the pickle plant where she worked for a time…munching on crunchy dill pickles…and the smell of the tomato plant she worked at for a time. Going to the local Apple festival with her, and going to the mall and having lunch in the cafeteria – carrying the tray to the table with such admiration that I was eating there with her. Trips to McDonald’s with her and Lizzy, a friend of hers. Riding the bus when she started working at the Senior Center, driving for Meals on Wheels, and having lunch with all the senior citizens. I love my grandma Ruth. She never spoiled me with lavish gifts or large amounts of cash, but she spoiled me in love and taught me to love others. As a child, I idolized my grandpa Charles. Following him around whenever we were at the farm. When I was 11, my grandpa passed away one cold December day. Grandma Ruth lost her best friend of so many years but never wavered and picked up the pieces, took up the rope that was dropped and kept going. Even now she can be seen on cold winter days in her snowsuit and cap, helping uncle Dave grind feed for the pigs. She is a woman of unfaltering strength, she teaches that you are never too good to work – that a job brings respect, no matter the title. I have watched her in my 30 plus years of life age and change, but have never been so proud of her before in my life. I love her, and cannot thank God enough that so many years ago, he set a plan in motion that would place me in her family.
This week, she participated in Senior Day at the local Senior Center that she worked for, for so many years. I thought I’d share a picture of her. It shows her silly side.
Happy Birthday Grandma. I love you.
