However, one major event this year suppresses the depression from those ills: my grandmother, Irene Schroedl, turns 90 years old on September 3rd. Contemplating all the events from 1919 to now boggles my young mind. Imagine her learning to drive on a Model-T type car, living through the Depression, World War II (which my grandfather served), the crazy 60s, 70s and 80s to see the technology boom of the 90s and living to see the century change, a second attack on US soil, and the world is still changing. She has lived in America with 16 presidents: one assassinated, one resigned and one is an African American!
Growing up, my brothers and sisters and I saw my grandmother about once a year, usually when she and Grandpa would drive from Nebraska in their Holiday Rambler trailer and Suburban to Virginia. We loved that trailer with all the cool secret compartments, peanut dispensers, and living spaces. They had a map with all the states and provinces they had visited in North America. Between my parents and them, my love for travel sprang forth. Grandma and I played cards every time we would visit each other. Our games included gin, nertz (like a competitive solitaire game), Uno, Skippo and Go Fish. After writing that statement, I realize how little I play cards now since I don’t have anyone to play with. I hope when I become a momma, my kids like playing cards too.
Grandma remembers everything. She remembers every birthday, anniversary, historical event and person in Falls City and so much more. Even now, people go to her to find out some event or person who used to live in Falls City.
I love my grandmother very much and wish I could be in Nebraska during her celebration. She deserves every special wish during the 2009 year.
Grandma and I in 1998
Grandma and Barbara tend to the Ketter site in Falls City, NE (1998)
Grandma gives Barbara a big squeeze (Road trip 1998)
