When I went home over Christmas I went to see my grandmother everyday, which is something I've always done and I like it. Sometimes we don't say anything, we just sit there and read a magazine each. It's nice. Being away for such long periods makes it difficult to see Grandmother as it's so noticeable that she's getting older - she's 91,5. G-mother has always been an avid reader and up to date with news from all over the world. She's nice and I love her.
On this particular day GM had received a Christmas present from my uncle - a book by an author (Peter Englund) I've read a couple of books by but never been too fond of. GM declared:
GM: "Oh, I haven't read this book and this will be nice now that he's won the Nobel prize.
Me: "The Nobel prize? When?
thinking: My God I am seriously out of touch... Gotta read up on Swedish events.
GM: "Oh yeah. This year. The Peace Prize.
Me: "The Peace Prize? "
thinking: I have to stop repeating what she says.
Me: He's an author. Don't you mean the Literature Prize?
thinking: Who won the different prizes this year? Can I only remember the HIV-dude?
GM:"No, the Peace Prize"
Me: "Oh alright. I didn't know that."
GM: "You mustn't forget to read the news."
Me: "No, I won't."
thinking: This does not add up at all. What the F*** has Englund done for peace? Doesn't he write about Swedish history, Kings and Queens 'olden days' war and peace?? Never mind. But good for him.
I decided not to pursue it but driving home I remembered that Englund has been elected secretary of the Prize committee. It didn't make me feel happy that I hadn't lost all touch in regards to Swedish news and events. I felt sad because I'd just seen another proof that my Grandmother was getting old, and not just in age. It also dawned on me that there are 91 years between Grandmother and Niece. Almost a decade. In the midst of feeling sad about GM ageing, I was happy that she's still around, muddled up or not.
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