Grandma

If you've known me for any length of time, I have probably told you a story about one of my awesome grandmothers. I'm lucky enough to have known both of my grandmothers my entire life, from when I was a wobbly toddler getting birthday cake icing all over my maternal grandmother's favorite sweater, to when I was honored and humbled to have both of them walk me down the aisle at my wedding nearly 5 years ago.

Grandma P, in royal blue, and Grandma Mac, in pink, walking me down the aisle

My Grandma McGivney passed away this morning at the age of 98. She is survived by 7 of her 8 children, 19 of her 20 grandkids and their spouses and partners, and 21 great-grandkids (though I could be off with those counts - we have a HUGE family).

Grandma Mac surrounded by some of her many kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids

My grandmothers have always been incredibly inspiring to me. Both of them grew up poor and survived countless challenges and hardships. Both of these incredibly loving and strong women taught me to be strong and tough in the face of adversity, and to always hold everyone you love close to you and to tell them you love them often.

Grandma at her 98th birthday party

Goodbye, Grandma. I'm happy that we could all have you in our lives as long as we did. You will be incredibly missed.