The Birthday Boy

I never knew how lucky and privileged I was to live so close and be the granddaughter of such a sweet, intelligent, and loving man. I remember we would drive to grandpa's house when I was a little girl and we'd go out to grandpa's warehouse and help him out. I would go explore the isles that held nuts and bolts, nails and screws. To this day when I go to a hardware store I take in the ever so familiar aromas and become draped with nostalgia.

Visiting grandpa in his big magical Dundee house was like going home. I always felt comfortable, and although I had to do chores, I loved being there. He always had a story to tell, and I was always eager to hear it. He always danced a jig when he was happy, excited, or had just been sitting for too long. But Grandpa never really sat for to long. He was a hard working man, and to this day still is.

I guess when I was young I believed he and grandma would be here forever. They would live nearby me forever and never die. Life is not about living forever though. It is about living your life to the fullest with what little time you have. Using your time wisely to work and play so that when it is time to die you are ready and have nothing left you feel that your life is missing. Grandpa and Grandma have lived such a life. I still imagine in my mind that they will live forever, no matter what happens.

You never know what you have until you lose it. Grandpa and Grandma are still alive and kicking, healthy and able. What I'm losing is the ability to see them every day. What I took for granted is that they were here with open arms inviting us to visit them and spend time with them. What I'm losing is the option to do this while they are living out their last days.

When one door shuts another door opens. Although it is a loss and very sad for me and anyone else in my family who can't afford to travel, it means that others are gaining the advantage of being able to see their beloved Grandparents. They are moving to a location where they are going to be surrounded by family. They probably wont have a moments peace because of all the grandchildren and great grandchildren that will be visiting them almost every day.

My advice to you is don't forget what a gift it will be to have them near you. Don't pass up the chance to bond with them and share your love with them while they are still here. I only have a month and a half until I say good bye to them. I pray you have years and years of healthy grandparents before they are through with their journey on earth. Give them hugs and tell them you love them for me as often as you can.

Today is a day worth celebrating, 90 years old and still going strong. To a man who loves loves loves birthdays, Happy Happy Birthday to you, dear Grandpa. I love you so much.