"Who has more fun than people?"
My Grandpa said this often. Usually when we were all around the table, lounging after Sunday dinner and laughing until tears rolled down. We'd all do that slow descent from laughing, he'd throw out the usual "ahh, who has more fun than people?" And the laughter would start again because we had no idea how to answer his goofy rhetorical question.
Last Monday was a mix of crying and praying. Praying for a peaceful death for my Grandpa, who lived a full life and was ready to go home.
I was able to be there with him later that night as he took his last breath.
As this blog grows, I feel a desire to keep things personal. This time, though, I feel I'm doing him a disservice by keeping it to myself. He always liked to brag on his kids and grandkids, so today I'm going to brag on him.
My grandpa had so many stories to tell. In this day, I think we forget the importance of story telling.
He had great catch phrases, the kind that were funny when he said them over and over. I've tried throwing them out in regular conversation and an awkward pause ensues. Haha! Not the same. He had his own personal brand of humor, and it was hilarious.
He loved the Cubs and got to finally see them bring home a World Series win just a few months ago.
He had been healthy up until a few months ago. He lived with my parents for seven years, moving in right around the time we bought our first house and I started this blog. We'd see him every time we visited my parents, which was a lot.
Our kids got to know him well and he'd slip them cookies from the jar next to his chair, just like he'd do when I was a kid. He got to know their little quirks and was always amazed at how different their personalities are. He'd call Lily, "little Annie" since she reminded him so much of me. Kate was fiesty, just like my grandma.
I can still hear his laugh, see his smile. I think I miss him, but I don't feel like he's gone.
He'd always say, "you can never be too careful!" So I'll keep praying for him to get to Heaven. And praying we all live a good life and can meet again.
He taught us all so much. So so much.
Love your family fiercely. Put others before yourself. Show genuine love for others, even people you don't know. Practice humility and swallow your pride, embrace hope and forgiveness. Enjoy the simple things in life, from the comics section to a parade. Sing, dance, tell jokes. Don't worry what others think.
Smile and laugh often. Delight in this gift of life we have been given.
Through good times and hard times, it really is a beautiful life.
Kim Jackson
In so very sorry for your loss. Your story touched my heart. I am a new grand parent and I would hope that my grandchildren feel about me the way you feel about your beloved grandfather. I will strive for that kind of relationship. You sound like a very kind, insightful and mature young woman to recognize the admirable qualities in your grandfather. ??
Pam Harris
I love this story! Family is the most important thing on this earth
Carol
I agree. So many memories that I have are of family around the dining room table for many dinners. Being from an Italian family, there were many laughs, it was very loud, and the food never stopped. When our family is all around, it's the same, many laughs, it's very loud, and although there are many different countries represented now in our family, the food never stops. Family is so very important. I agree with your grandpa.
Ann Marie Heasley
Italian family over here too! So much love to you, Carol. Your words were comforting and made me smile. Thanks for sharing.
Carol
Memories, are good. You are welcome.
Carol
Sadness, memories, more sadness, more memories...laughter....from your heart, you sob, It's ok. We have emotions that sometimes go up and down. It's ok. Grandfather, what wonderful memories, never ever forget You have something wonderful in your heart, pass it on to your children, the wonderful memories of your grandfather. I hope that they will have memories of their grandfather, too. I had two wonderful grandfathers, and they gave me many memories and stories to remember and pass on to our children and grandchildren. May God give you only the peace that He can give you during this time in your life.
Vada Long
This is so wonderful. A great way to remember your wonderful grandfather. Uncle Joe was a wonderful man. I loved the summers they all spent here and every time I visited him and Aunt Lou he would take me to a Cubs game. I was so happy when they won the World Series and the first thing I said was "THATS FOR YOU UNCLE JOE". He was always worried about us. When my grandpa got sick, he always called and made sure grandma didn't need anything and continued to check on her years after grandpa died. Even the last time I saw him, just a couple of years ago, he gave me a big hug as We were leaving and ask, "you need anything honey?" He always cared for others. He is one of the last of the greatest generation there ever was. He will always be loved by everyone who met him.
Marilou
Awe Annie, he so very much loved you. He was an awesome amazing Papa but also a great dad. He loved his children but loved his grand kids just as much if not more. He always provided so many wonderful things even though he was not rich. We were the first people on the block with color tv and the first night we got it the house was full of neighbors so everyone could see it. And that is how we lived. People came to us for shoes and glasses he made sure everyone had a winter coat. During th 67 snow storm he walked to store with my brother and bought as much food as we could afford but even though we had 5 kids he stopped along the way and passed out food to neighbors on the way home. People who couldn't get out now had milk, bread ? and lunch meat. His car was used by other people so many times if they had a sick kid to take to dr.? He was so thoughtful.
Jacque
I love this! I'm so sorry for your loss friend. Your grandpas legacy lives on in you and with the things you do. I know he's proud!
PS - My Pop's famous one liner: "Never trust a fart!" Truer words never spoken 😉