My-rene

Well, her name is really Irene....Mary Irene.  I was named after her and my late grandmother, Helen.  We have always called her Irene and as a little kid I wondered why everyone else's grandmothers were granny or nana.  Surely there had to be some Irenes too  :) 

As a mother, I am learning more and more about the incredible bond that kids have with their grandparents.  My girls love love love their grandparents, and great-grandparents!!  I so wish I had remembered to take my camera with me more while I was home and get photos with all the grandparents. 

I was so glad I was able to get some shots with Irene though.  This fabulous woman, who I love to no end, will be 88 on February 22nd!  88!  She is one of the funniest, most sincere, selfless people I know.  It breaks my heart to only be able to see her an hour or so, a couple of times a year.  Oh goodness, it's making me teary eyed as I type this.  One thing that I absolutely adore about Irene is that she still writes letters.  They make my day!  Not only does she write letters, but she often apologizes for not writing enough!  She is so appreciative of every phone call, every visit, every card, every picture...it makes my heart melt. 

Madison was obsessed with Irene's fun necklace.  I love that even in her late-80s she is more fashionable than I have or ever will be  :)

Mallory, putting chapstick on Irene.  Love.

Here is Irene and Big Pop (his real name was Ashley) in 1945.  Adorable, aren't they??