Sunday, November 30, 2008

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.

6 comments:

My ADHD Me said...

I didn't have a Lou Lou, but I had a Grammy.
The best times of my childhood were the summers I spent with her.

Ballerina Girl said...

I have great summer memories also. I really enjoy this song also.
Thank you for sharing!
BG

sara said...

That was such a sweet memory!!! I had my great grandmother, Mama. thanks for sharing!!

My ADHD Me said...

I'm still trying to think up 5 adjectives to describe myself.
Harder than I thought.
OK,
I'm going back to your 7 quick takes and going to do them now....as soon as I find my Thesaurus. ha

Fuschia said...

That is my second favorite hymn next to Great is Thy Faithfulness.
The picture in my mind's eye of "Lou Lou" singing is just beautiful!

Edie said...

I love How Great Thou Art. What a beautiful visual of her singing it with arms raised high!