Party of Five: HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDMA RENE!

My Grandma Rene is 90, and is still as active, smart and funny as ever. My mom and Kathy threw a big birthday party for her, and she invited 70 of her closest friends. Who has 70 close friends? And all of her friends came except 8, and those 8 either were sick or passed away between the time they got the invitation and the party. She is a rock star!

I have learned so much from my grandma throughout my life, but I think the biggest thing I have learned from her is how to endure hard things. My grandma had to quit school when she was very young so that she could help her family. She taught herself English (her family spoke German), and how to read and write. Shortly after she married my grandpa, he went to war, and when his plane was shot down she was told that he had died. Even though he was okay, she went a while without knowing he was still alive. She raised 3 kids, worked, supported my grandpa, stayed true to who she is, and still stayed looking classy the whole time! She is an amazing golfer - she now golfs with the 70 year old ladies because all of her friends can't golf anymore! She taught herself how to paint and play the organ. My grandma took such great care of my grandpa as he was in the early stages of Alzheimer's, and continues to be by his side as much as she can now that he is completely in another world at the VA. I am so thankful for the example of love and dedication she has shown me. I am so thankful that my children have the chance to know this amazing, strong woman.

I love you grandma. Happy happy birthday.