Vicky 27th February 2016

(Thanks to Sam for helping me get through what I had written for the service!) I wrote this speech on behalf of all the grandchildren. We all know how dearly Nan loved us. I feel I have been very lucky to inherit many of Nan's qualities; a run which can only be described as 'unique'; a face which has not been designed to suit hats, no matter how hard we try; and artitistic skills which have resulted in many laughs during a game of pictitonary at Christmas. But there are many ways in which I aspire to be like my Nan. A selfless and incredibly generous person, Nan would have done anything for us. We were never fortunate enough to have known Nan when her husband, my grandad John, was alive. However, the woman I did know was very independent, head strong, and determined - something she continued to demonstrate during the few weeks she spent in hospital. These characteristics gave her a strength I've rarely witnessed in others. When I think about the things I'm going to miss, firstly it will be our phone calls. As someone who wasn't particularly comfortable with talking on the phone, I would often laugh with mum about how I could time how long our conversations would last. Although they were always 7 minute conversations, I know I'll cherish them forever. I could talk to her about the positives and share my troubles, which leads me to the second thing I am going to miss terribly and that is the cards she used to send. From beautifully worded birthday and Christmas cards to those in which she celebrated our successes or gave supportive words in those challenging times when we needed encouragement. Though I could go on, the last thing I'll say I am going to miss is her sense of humour. She would frequently make dry and witty comments. One of my favourites comes from when her and Mum went to a hospital appointment. Due to her osteoporosis, Nan has lost several inches in height to which she commented to the nurse that if she continued at this rate, we'd be burying her in a match box. For Mum and the people who knew her well, this was a typical 'Nan style' joke, tough I'm not sure the poor nurse at the time quite knew how to respond. In addition to this, Nan was able to laugh at herself because all she wanted to do was make us smile. Ask us about the water bucket incident during our trip to Florida to hear a prime example of this. I will treasure the photos and memories I have; our Saturday night card games; family Christmases; and the various holidays and day trips. The only thing I have left to say comes from Ethan. As he very appropriately worded on the day we found out our nan would be joining her loving husband, "To nanny. We love you with all our hearts."