My Maternal Grandmother

My maternal grandmother kept a jar of dimes in the kitchen, and would often give us each a dime, which was a fortune to us! She was an incredibly attentive listener. Even though there were several of us, looking back I think she must have intentionally managed to spend one-on-one time with each on of us. She would ask Terry to sing hymns for her, and she would listen raptly. 

I don't remember what she particularly did with any of the others, but I remember her asking me questions - real questions - listening and responding to my childish answers seriously - as she taught me to crochet.  She would ask what I was learning in school (not just how I liked it or who my friends were but what I was LEARNING.)  I realize now how unique that was. She was a hugger and a toucher, which made me feel very warm and secure at her house. 

I remember playing hopscotch on the sidewalk in front of her house or in her dirt yard. I remember watching her move around her kitchen singing hymns as she worked. Biscuits. Hair in a bun at the back of the head. Thick glasses. Housedresses. Snuff! Soft speech.