Grandparents

On February 20th, just 1 week after her 95th birthday, Dave's grandma passed away.  She caught the flu a few weeks ago and her body wasn't quite able to recover.  She was in congestive heart failure and her kidneys had discontinued working.  (crazy to think that Andrew has been through both of those already - his kidneys not to that extent but close!)  Dave and I attended her funeral this past Wednesday.  It was very nicely done and I learned a lot I didn't know from the stories her sons told.  For one, her and her husband experienced 3 fires during the early years of their marriage!  Crazy!  However, I would have much rather have heard those stories from her.  My sweetest memory was that at least 3 times a year we would receive a hand written letter from her telling us about how she was doing.  That's a lot of writing when you have 22 grand children and 33 great grandchildren!  Although I did not know her well she will be missed.  She was the sweetest lady.

Dave's grandma's passing made me realize that this day will come sometime for my grandparents.  They are still young at 73 and 68 years old.  I dread those days that I have to say goodbye.  My grandparents are a huge part of my life.  

Grandpa spoiled me with his love (and an occasional gift!).  I've never met my dad so my grandpa has also been that father figure to me.  He would do anything for me. When I was commuting during my last year of college, grandpa bought me a brand new car so I wouldn't have to worry about breaking down on the way there or back.  He has bailed me out numerous times when I've locked my keys in my car or needed a ride someplace.  He came to all of my soccer games and I'm pretty sure was my biggest fan.  We've ridden miles on our bikes together and eaten a few too many ice cream cones.

Grandma spoiled me with gifts and toys beyond my wildest dreams.  When I was pregnant with Eric, my grandma made the decision to retire from her job so that she could provide daycare for us free of charge.  She loves Eric and now Andrew even more then me I'm sure!  They make her days and weeks and she even gets upset when she doesn't get to see them!  It is a blessing to be able to drop your children off with someone and not have to worry about them one bit.

This is just a short ode to grandma and grandpa and these words do not do justice of how great they are.  I'm so thankful for them.  I love these old timers so much and I dread the day when I will have to say goodbye.