Every time I was in her house I felt the love and acceptance. Leone never judged and always forgave no matter what.
I remember her making homemade play dough when we were bored, teaching us to bake all kinds of cookies. She taught me tons of gardening tips and ideas. I learned most of the names of flowers that would grow well here in Iowa.
I'm going to miss the welcome smile and hug I got every time I walked in her door. I'll miss stopping by when my mom passed and Leone held me while I cried for hours. She made me feel loved and helped me move past my loss when everyone else told me to 'get over it'.
She was the rock in her family and all that knew her.
Leone lived a long life full of love and family. Countless grandchildren, great-grandchildren, even great-great-grandchildren. All she ever wanted for us is to have happy lives. I have that in aspects to family.
She never spent much time with my kids, but always wanted pictures and she got them of both my kids every time they had new ones taken. Anytime I had new pictures of us she was the first to get them then my own small family.
My heart aches and tears have fallen but in my heart I know she is at peace and pain free. This gives me joy.
I will not attend her funeral because of the hundreds of people that will be there to celebrate her life. I just can't handle it. The thought I won't be there hurts me. So, today I am taking a break from social media and spending time with my kids.
My Leone rest in peace and all who knew who understand her life was fulfilled and it was her time.
I love you grandma Leone.
