This is the final episode of the series for this year, and was definitely the hardest one for us to make; I'm thankful Mema was finally able to share our Grandpa Jim's final story on this Earth, as it seems we had been inching closer to that part of her timeline and then digressing back into happier times. The moment finally came though, and it was less than fun to witness Mema reliving the tragic moment. I used the Thanksgiving holiday as an excuse to put off editing, but in reality, I wasn't ready to listen to Mema recount her heartbreak again so soon...The grandkids have talked about how they're excited to hear themselves come into the picture as Mema's stories close in on the present day, so I'm looking forward to hear what next year's series will hold, with heartbreak, happiness and everything in between.

This will not necessarily be an episode you'll want to listen to over and over, unlike her funnier segments that have gotten many many listens. For me personally, it has served as closure to an ongoing wondering of why we had to grow up without the presence of this wonderful man; I never thought I could so badly miss someone I've never even met. For the last episode of the year, I wanted to add in a little musical surprise with the help of my husband, Jason. I had to break it up into parts for copyright purposes, so the editing is a lot different than usual. Nonetheless, I hope you enjoy. I would like to dedicate the music to Grandpa Jim: I assure you, your wife will love you until the poets run out of rhyme. 

As always, we'll see you on the twelfth of Never. 

[I do not own the rights to the music or lyrics]

In which Mema recounts hotel pranksters, ducking out of church 'specials', and language barrier faux pas!

In which Mema recounts stories shared with her late husband, our Grandpa Jim, talking about love triangles, Germany and camping "vacations."

In which Mema recounts stories of her late husband Jim's life, growing up in Texas and hitchhiking his way to Chicago as a teen

In which Mema recounts our recent road trip to her hometown of Wagoner, Oklahoma

In which Mema explains how her story wouldn't be complete without sharing how she found faith, a heavenly father, and a final home in her church.