Bittersweet moments

Four generations at Abigail's dedication

My Nan has experienced a lot in her life ... surviving wars ... working different jobs, from nursing to airport security ... raising two kids who have gone on to have their own families (to date she has 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren) ... and so much more. 

Growing up I always called her 'Nanny Gatwick' as she worked at Gatwick Airport and my other Nan was 'Nanny Seaside' because she lived ... yes, by the sea!!

When a lot more mobile she could be very goofy and active but over the last decade or so has struggled with different ailments ... some a lot more serious than others. 

Over the last few weeks she has been increasingly ill and in hospital. When we arrived back in the UK on Thursday morning one of our first priorities was to visit her and introduce her to Naomi, who til then she had only seen on Skype. Sadly early the following morning she died.

Being overseas you are never guaranteed to be in the right place at the right time when it comes to family illness and death. It's one of the more difficult sacrifices that we make choosing to do what we do.

We were really blessed this week that in God's perfect timing we could be here and see her one last time and also be available to help my mum now. So, you'll forgive me if this post is a little late ... but Friday was all about Nanny Gatwick.