"Ode to Granny Grunt" for Anthony.
Grandma Granny keys and phone,
We're all sad, you've left grandad alone.
While you're gone we'll try to keep him right.
But as you know, he'll likely put up a fight.
With promises made he's sure to get by,
Keep him off of the shed roof? We can try!
70 years - what a remarkable achievement.
Though someone we know might say "savage amusement"
Your absence brings a loneliness for which there's no cure.
We'll be there for your love, Peter, you can be sure.
Cherished memories live on to comfort the shock,
Like driving through Tynemouth, past The Gibratar Rock.
A hearty roast dinner or Beamish for fish and chips,
Noisy neighbours, making the curtains twitch.
Hearing garden birds sing will make us think of you.
Chaffinches, gold finches, a little jenny wren too.
As a couple you were always out and about.
A National Holiday, your favourite, without a shadow of doubt.
A quiz with the ladybirds on a Thursday night,
Popping to the shops, not a mobile phone in sight.
We'll think of you in Warkworth when the dafodils bloom
And if we ever manage to finish our living room.
A tipple on Boxing Day was always a treat
Keeping us updated with Emmerdale and Coronation Street.
I'll think of you while watching the new Downton Abbey.
It'll be bittersweet, the Crawleys have also lost their Granny.
A proper cup and saucer for coffee with cream.
A pint of lager at Archer street club, living the dream.
Before long the mouth organ inevitably comes out.
And we laugh with glee as you'd give Peter a clout.
You loved our boys with their big blue eyes.
You said "Don't take them abroad, there's too many flies."
"Nevermind that, what's your latest adventure?"
Then your quick wit would have us in fits of laughter.
It's only been a few weeks and we have so much to say.
But you're no longer here, to our dismay.
We'll follow your footsteps, bickering, doing as you bid.
For life is for living. And live it, you did.
Love from Sarah and Anthony, Oliver and Leo xxx
Sarah
20/03/2025
