I got a phone call from my ex-wife last night to tell me that her Mom was in the hospital emergency room. An hour later, another phone call, her Mom had died. This morning, my ex-wife, my wife and I told my kids that their Grandmother was gone. I don't know that I've ever had a more gut-wrenching job to do. With five days to go until Christmas one of the most important people in their lives is gone. My Mom and my ex-wife's Dad were both dead before my kids were born. My Dad has since gone to a Nursing home and doesn't recognize them so for all intents and purposes this was the only Grandparent they have, and now she's gone.

When I found out, I woke up my wife (KarenB) to tell her. She gave me a big hug and we both cried for what seemed like forever. Her thoughts were for me, my kids, AND my ex-wife. Some of you have corresponded with her through the Secret Santa Threads and PM's so you've gotten to know her just a little. I'm not sure what I'd do without her.

My former Mother-in-law and I have not always agreed on every issue. We have had our arguments. But when she thought her daughter was wrong for wanting a divorce, she stood by me as a friend without compromising the relationship with her daughter. She was a damn fine woman, Mother, Wife, Grandmother and friend. My kids will miss her.....and so will I....very much.

Frank

Thanks for listening