When I started this blog, I figured my second post would be a story from our recent travels or about shopping for maternity clothes (really, it is funny). Instead, as is often the case, God had other plans. I find myself faced with the seemingly impossible task of saying goodbye to my Grandpa Powers. He passed away early Saturday morning at the age of 88. He and my grandma celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on July 3. My mom is the oldest of his six kids who are all married and I'm one of his 15 grandkids. Grandpa has 18 great grandchildren with #19 on the way. So where to start? What do you say?
Well, I'll start with one of my favorite Grandpa stories. When I was a little kid and we were spending the night out at the farm, I was always up early (hmmm...maybe that's where my kids get it from). Since Grandpa was up doing chores, I always found him waiting for me in the kitchen. He loved a good joke so when I asked for my cereal, he set a bowl of gravel in front of me. Needless to say, I wasn't impressed. Then he gave me a bowl of candy. I didn't want the candy either and asked Grandpa, "can I please have my Cheerios?" He got such a kick out of that and loved telling people that his little granddaughter wanted Cheerios instead of a bowl of candy for breakfast. Those early mornings with Grandpa all to myself were special.
Grandpa, I see pieces of you in all my boys. Zack loves math and playing games. I have a feeling he'll be an avid card and golf player just like you. George counts everything, everywhere we go and he loves growing things. Andy loves tractors and is the stubborn, ornery one...no more explanation needed. George also purses his lips together and harrumphs like you when he's considering something.
We love you and you will be missed. Thank you for teaching us how to work hard and play hard and always enjoy life. Thank you for showing us by your example what it means to love our family and to take care of each other and our neighbor. And Grandpa, thanks for all the yummy sugar cookies. Save some for the next time we meet.
What a nice farewell for Grandpa, Jennie. Joe is sad that he has lost a great Cribbage player. We are all sad right now. We all have plenty of great memories of Grandpa to keep with us forever. - Jalene
ReplyDeleteWhat a special tribute to your grandfather. It is so neat to see traces of our grandparents in our kids. You will be glad you wrote this down.
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