This next post is dedicated to a woman who not only touched my life, but is apart of my soul, as well. She was a spirited and energetic woman who loved life and loved her family fiercely. You could hear her laugh across a large room and above the crowd. She was loved by many and will not soon be forgotten. I am proud to call her my grandmother. We lost her, Olga Johnson, on Tuesday morning, December 28th, 2010.
Sifting through pictures and memories, I realize that genetics are not uniquely your own but are truly made up of those who came before you...I've often asked myself, 'who am I?' Why do I LOVE to read? Where did I get my goofy pinky toe? Why am I so loud in certain situations?? (--have you met my quiet mother?!?)
Looking through these few images, I think that I (and maybe you, as well), may just understand a bit more... (Remember that you can click on an image to make it larger)
This first picture contains many family members...my Grandma is the second from the right...and that's me right next to that picture. Resemblance?
This next picture is of both of my grandmothers, and I, around the age of 18.
Left: Olga Johnson, Graduation 1945
Middle: Me, Spring 2000
Right: Edna Bahm, graduation 1933
Look at those smiles?? How can I smile so much like two different women??
Here is a picture of David and Olga Johnson September 1950
These next two pictures are 2 of only a few that I have of GREAT-Grandma Johnson holding Carson and both were some of the happiest moments in her later life:
The Birth and Baptism of her first Great-Grandchild
Brett and Ashley's Wedding:
These last picture is my favorite and the only one of it's kind in our family...
FOUR generations of family:
Great-Grandma Olga Johnson
Grandpa Dave Johnson
Mommy Julie Johnson Pate
Son Carson Pate
It's just fun to imagine her running and living with her Lord...Praise God for the reunion that we get to have very soon...
"And all of creation sing with me now
lift up your voice and lay your burden down
and all of creation sing with me now
fill up the heavens let his glory resound
Time has faded and we see him face to face"
--Mercy Me (All of Creation)
**Side note: This entire blog was, partially, meant just for my 'techy' 83-year-old grandmother...I've always been proud that she was 'computer saavy' enough to read my blog and stay updated on my life...dedicated to her, I will continue.
