Childhood Friends

( Picture was taken for their 50th Anniversary)

I don't have a memory, of a time, when I did not know Br. and Sr. Ghramm. ( a.k.a Lawrence and Velma ) I have always called them, Br. and Sr. Ghramm. I know a few people reading this may know them, but not many. They were my childhood buddies, from the Wesleyan Church in Joplin. I know that may seem strange. But it wasn't to me. I thought, they were WONDERFUL! And they loved me! I loved spending time at their house on Sunday afternoons, and he took us on the railroad tracks, to check things out. He worked for the railroad. She loved to cook for people, and I just enjoyed being with them. I felt special, just being in their company. Only warm, good memories of them! We have kept in touch over the years with cards and letters. Sr. Ghramm made Matthew a wonderful quilt, when he was born......... then shortly after, I received the news from Br. Ghramm, that his wondeful wife of 54 years had gone to be with Jesus. I will always remember the moment, .....sitting in the van, reading the letter. I cried, and sobbed like I have rarely ever cried.

I was truly going to miss her. I had lost something precious in my life. Br. Ghramm and I still write at Christmas. I have tried on many occassions, to express to them, how they touched a little girls heart, and it lasted a lifetime!! Even though I haven't seen them for years, when God gives you a friend, they are always a friend!! I love The Ghramm's!!