At nineteen, I'd spent most of my holidays with my parents and older brother. Since my father's parents had died and my mom's parents/family lived in Ireland, we didn't often get to spend holidays with extended family. So, it was always quiet and cozy.
Until the Christmas of 1989...when I was introduced to my then-boyfriend's extended family. The single most memorable moment for me was when I stepped out of the van we'd spent 6 hours in traveling from Central Texas to Fort Smith, AR., and receiving the biggest, back-slapping hug from Brian's Grandma Kendig.
Clara Kendig was a slight woman, who didn't stand much more than five-two or so. But the woman had a strength that invigorated her family, admonished close relationships with the Lord, and made holidays that much more amazing! Grandma Kendig embraced me as one of her own before Brian had even proposed to me. Her memory, her legacy, will live forever in my heart, and I pray that some day, when I am the "Grandma" (or even the mother-in-law), that I will be as loving and embracing as the amazing Clara Kendig!
Ronie Kendig is an award-winning, bestselling author who grew up an Army brat. After twenty-plus years of marriage, she and her hunky hero husband have a full life with four children and a Maltese Menace in Northern Virginia. Author and speaker, Ronie loves engaging readers through her Rapid-Fire Fiction.
Ronie can be found at www.roniekendig.com, on Facebook (www.facebook.com/rapidfirefiction), Twitter (@roniekendig), and Goodreads (www.goodreads.com/RonieK)
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Ronie, Thanks so much for sharing this moment with us! It's wonderful how God blessed you with such a loving family. I know you're just as fantastic to all those the Lord brings into your children's lives.
ReplyDeleteA reminder to us to be the most we can be in focusing on others. Thank you, Ronie, and Anne for having Ronie today. I will remember. Kathleen
ReplyDeleteKathleen, Thank you so much for taking time to come by and leave a comment! And for reminding us that our focus should be on others and serving them, as Christ served. Blessings to you, dear friend!
DeleteRonie, I love hearing about Christmas memories and the people that create them. Anne, your "place" is looking adorable as ever and full of the holiday spirit. Hope you enjoy every single day of the season. Merry Christmas, girl! Love, Diane
ReplyDeleteHi Diane, I just loved Ronie's memory of first meeting her grandmother-in-law! Sweet, sweet memories of family and friends are always heartwarming to hear. I hope you are having a blessed Christmas season so far! Lots of love and prayers for you, GF :)
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