Atlanta. My parents decided to have more children after my brother was killed so that I wouldn't be an only child, so my other brother and my sister were born later.Devastating. Weall your halves, gull.
I can not begin to imagine the nightmare. Sounds like you kind of lost your momma and baby bro all in a split second, and at just 8.
Do you mind if I ask where you lived then? Just curious. Were your other two siblings older or younger than you?
I'm sorry that terrible loss happened to the 8 yr old future little beach runner. Its just a reminder for me to be more thankful for everyday and for family. It's no wonder you ever wanted to leave your daughter anywhere. As a kid I lived right outside of Atlanta. Went to Woodward, Nancy Creek, Chamblee, Norcross. You didn't go to any of those schools, did you? ;-) Not that it would've been at the same time anyhow. My fam left the ATL in '76.
Spidey LOVES to go visit his grandparents...I just wish he knew my parents better.....GO GO GO!!!! and have a wonderful vacation together! I cannot imagine regretting a minute of it. you deserve it. and your child will be having a great time with grandma, bonding for life, and this is a wonderful thing too. you shall not regret it!!!
my little one is the only grandchild of my parents living out of town (the other 5 live in town). he has spent a week at a time with them since he was born, and has the best relationship with his grandparents out of all 6 grandchildren. they are all close to my parents, but "in town" grandkids spend the night with grandparents often, but how often do they spend a week? this is wonderful and special time together. and you get a much needed break...good luck and take some pix!
Maybe once I live there too...the old farts will come and visit more often...or heck I'll take the little bugger down there! 
I can't wait either!!!!! all will be well!