My Darling Babcia

 

As I mentioned in my Friday Faves post, my babcia passed away on Wednesday.  In an attempt to make peace with the fact that I can't fly to Poland for the funeral, I felt the need to honor her in some way and get my feelings out.  In addition to this post, I also went to church this morning to light a candle in her honor.  I hope she knows that even though I live far away, I have not forgotten her.     

 

My babcia was an incredible women.  She was 95 when she passed and would've turned 96 this upcoming Tuesday.  Living in Poland through horrible times, surviving both World Wars, communism and other poverty stricken situations, living with 1 kidney, burying her husband too early, are all reasons for why her living to be 95 was just that much more amazing!  She was independent, strong and stubborn, but also an incredibly loving women who raised 2 beautiful daughters.  She was also blessed with not only 4 grandchildren but 4 great grandchildren (the oldest being 28 years old).

Babcia cared for me when both of my parents had to work and along the way taught me many wonderful things.  She taught me the importance of religion, god and prayer, to appreciate books (which to this day I still love) and many wonderful Polish traditions that I cherish in my heart.   I have beautiful memories of cooking with her, collecting leaves for our leaf collection and making wianki (wreathes).  I envied her zest for youth and life along with her always tough, yet positive and happy perspective on life.  She never seemed to worry about anything. 

My babcia lived a very full life and even though I knew the time was coming, it still leaves me with a heavy heart. This reminder of how we aren't all going to be around forever comes at an important time.  I have been taking life for granted and really shouldn't.  In fact, none of us should. 

I am glad to know, that after over 30 years, my babcia will finally be reunited with the love of her life.  A man I did not have the pleasure of meeting but have always heard only positive things about.  R.I.P. babcia, your memory will never be forgotten and treasured dearly for years and years to come.