How Great Thou Art

Last Sunday after church, I went on my regular jaunt to Alabama to see Lou Lou. My new daughter-in-love had never met her and had the opportunity to go so Uncommon Blonde, daughter-in-love and I were off through the woods. LouLou was so happy to see us and called to everyone that went by, wanting to introduce us. I got so tickled as she would say, “These are my granddaughters. They are lovely and charming and educated.”

At 102, she gets frustrated that she can’t remember our names, but I tell her that’s all right, because we know she loves us. She can remember the words to an endless number of hymns though, as well as her favorite poems. Her favorite hymn is “How Great Thou Art.”

I am sharing this memory borrowed from my cousin Katelyn’s June blog post. The impact LuLu’s life has had (and continues to have) on our very large extended family is profound.

Katelyn writes: “Growing up, the entire family spent our summers at Lou Lou's "Beach House" which was really on the bay. She has always had a love for the water. In fact I believe she taught my mom and her sisters how to swim. Lou Lou was her happiest when everyone was together.

After Lou Lou sold the Beach House (about 15 years ago), the beach trips were moved to our beach house during the month of October. Lou Lou, Uncle Brother, my grandmother Barbara and her twin sister Bettye would spend the entire month together at the beach. Day in and day out, Lou Lou would walk outside during sunset and sing How Great Thou Art. Loud. Arms raised to heaven. I can see her now. She is the definition of a woman of God... having her still here with us only adds strength to my belief that God is good.”

My soul sings today! Shalom.