My grandmother, Ardie Rodale, recently passed away peacefully after a long illness. While it’s incredibly sad, I’m consoled by focusing on many warm, happy memories of her, as I think she would have wanted anyone who knew her to do.
In 2007, we both had books out—The Heir And The Spare and Everyday Miracles—and we went on tour to promote them. We did radio interviews from her office, and we traveled to Ohio and Kentucky for book signings, talks, more radio interviews and even a TV appearance (check out the picture here), and stops at gift shops. It was a wonderful, whirlwind trip where we got to know each other as people and writers, not just as family. That was a gift.
My grandmother read my romance novels. I once gave her the first 80 or so pages of The Rogue And The Rival before it was published and she called me up demanding more. I half-jokingly offered her a version with the sex scenes cut out and she said “Absolutely not.” Hee Hee! She was a funny, spunky old lady and she will be missed.
I’m looking forward to family time this holiday more than usual. I hope y’all enjoy a happy holiday and New Year.
8 Comments
I’m so sorry to hear about your grandmother Maya.
My condolences to you and your family. But what a lovely tribute to a womderful lady. Thanks for sharing your memories with us! 
Happy holidays to you too!
Thanks, Lisa! Happy Holidays to you and your family! Looking forward to seeing you in January
Hi Maya,
I am sorry to hear about your grandmother. She was such a special lady. Her kindness and generosity were inspiring.
Pam
Sorry about your grandmother. I’m glad that you have sweet, loving memories of her. I recently lost my grandmother and I know that her love is still with me. I know it is the same with you.
Maya, my deepest sympathies on your grandmother’s passing. What a wonderful blog celebrating what was obviously a “life well-lived.”
What a great way to remember Ummy. For me, I am never going to be able to look at that particular shade of turquoisey-bluey-green without thinking of her.
x x
Maya, I’m so sorry to hear that news. But your thoughtful post shows that your grandmother will always live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
Maya,
Ardie was a true inspirational force of nature and the world was very blessed to have felt her enormous presence. Those who crossed her path even more so. You, her family: Wow.
Her memorial service was absolutely the most beautiful memorial I have ever attended. Bar none. The multiplying effects of her inspiration has a exponential force, Maya. What a grand testament to a life well lived and well loved! Thanks for sharing your memories with us. She has inspired my blog for New Year’s Eve. She rocked better than Dick Clark!
“Faith, Hope, Love. The greatest of these is Love.”
Hugs, Donna