"Is a bell necessary on a bicycle"

When I first heard this phrase, I died laughing. Strange collection of words to put together. Well, I first heard this when my great grandmother whose name is Isabelle Leo told us her childhood chums would tease her about her name and ask "Is a bell necessary on a bicycle"? Aspen and I thought that was too funny. I share this story because on February 16th Gram Leo passed away at the ripe old age of 99.

Sad day for all who heard the news. The truth of the matter is she has been ready to go for the last 20 years. As kids, she has spent many winters with us, I think 14 in all. Everyone loved her, our friends and family always welcomed her arrival. She was Gram to most, and some called her Iz or Izmo. I have many fond memories of her when she spent those winters with us, she would eat green gummy mint leaves, orange slices, and pork chops with mint jelly. She would fold endless baskets of laundry and tidy up our rooms. We had a pool growing up, and she would do many laps around the pool deck for her "exercise." She loved to watch Regis and Kathie Lee with a cup of tea and a hearty breakfast and on Sundays she would watch Robert Schueller religiously (no pun intended). She and my mom were the best of buds, and my mom treasured those winters she spent with us. Another fond memory was when we took Gram to Franes Fashions where she would load up on new clothes, slacks, blouses, and some pearls. We always encouraged her to get brighter colors so we could see her coming. For the most part, she obliged.

I will miss Gram terribly but I also will cherish those great times and they will be with me forever. I don't know many people who can say they knew their great grandma let alone had a great relationship with her. She lived a great life, 99 years old is quite an accomplishment. I hope they are having a huge party up in Heaven and she is catching up with her husband and all her friends...they have waited a long time for her arrival. We will miss you and you know we loved you so much.

Enjoy your view!