Memory-Grafting
Our worldly possessions are in a warehouse, across the country. And the past week has been occupied with final arrangements, last minute packing, and tearful leave-takings.
In just over twenty-four hours, we will board a plane that will carry us away from the familiar to something new. Exciting. And unknown.
Unlike the generations of yore, we know that we will see our family again. We will return to visit our old haunting grounds. And regale friends with tales of our new life.
For me, this will be the first home that MamaBear, z”l, will never have seen.
MamaBear, I know, loved that the Frummies lived in close proximity to her and PapaBear. Always an enthusiastic grandmother, she took particular delight in being blessed with great-grandchildren while she was relatively young.
When she would pop over for a visit, she would inevitably wonder, “is anyone interested in coffee?” Translation: Would someone please put up some coffee?
Though PC and I had received a top-of-the-line Bunn coffee maker from MomGiraffe and DadGiraffe when we got engaged, the convenience of having a Starbucks within walking distance was too powerful to resist. That Bunn sat, unused, for all nine years that we lived in our little house.
MamaBear didn’t like Starbucks. “Too strong,” she decreed. But she had a solution. She kept a jar of instant coffee in our cupboard. “So that you should always have coffee for me when I come for a visit.”
That jar of Yuban was the last thing I removed from the cupboard and, I expect, will be the first thing that I place into the pantry in our new home.
MamaBear’s presence will be brought into our sacred space through stories and memories and pictures and, yes, even a jar of instant coffee.
She sure would have loved coming for a visit, though.
Frume Sarah is Shabbos-observant -- in a Reform way, that is. Please note that from Friday afternoons until one hour after sundown on Saturday evenings, Frume Sarah will be unavailable, in observance of the Jewish Sabbath.
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Thank you for your understanding...and gut Shabbos!!! 
Looking forward to visiting with you (your place or mine) and sharing coffee (Yuban or Starbucks) once you’re all settled. Godspeed, my friend.
I am also looking forward to seeing you. Have a good flight and good luck getting settled in.
May her memory continue to be a blessing to you and to all of us who knew and loved her. Have a cup of coffee for me and for her. Safe travels!!!
What an amazing journey your family is on. And I bet your grandmother can’t wait to have a cup of her coffee in your new home!
What a beautiful memory…brought tears to my eyes when I needed a good cry 🙂
what a sweet remembrance. i know that her presence will be in your new home too….
lots of love!
I have instant coffee in my cupboard too from G&G’s visit to our house three years ago.
MamaBear sounds like the perfect mama and grandmama. 😉 I can hear her voice, though I’ve never known it. She sounds just like many a mom I have known. I am glad to see you’re safely relocated. Wishing you a smooth, easy and calm transition!