Memories...

Wow! I didn't realize that it had been two whole months since I had last written...I guess I just let life run away with me. I haven't taken many pictures in those 2 months, but do have a couple to upload later. For those of you who do not know, my Grandfather recently passed away. He was diagnosed with cancer and progressed so quickly, that I didn't even make it back to chat with him before he passed. While that could have made me sad, I am choosing to be glad that I can now remember him for the healthy man he was. In fact, some of my favorite memories are of him telling stories (usually embellished)...I may have inherited his amazing story-spinning ability! I loved how passionate he was about his views, and he stuck to them no matter how frustrated those around him may have gotten. It's also interesting to note that many of his children would get frustrated and try to talk over him (rationalize with him), but really what they failed to notice was that he was the chief...however, he raised a bunch of little chiefs, so no matter where we are together or which family gathering we are attending, there are always about 9 chiefs who like to tell it like it is. And that spirited trait will live on and be passed down forever. He loved to drink beer, and I remember that too. Along with the fact that he was always licking his lips. I'm not really sure why he didn't carry chapstick, but that thought came a little too late to do any good. I remember him driving me around on the back of his motorcycle and how I was never surprised when he asked if I had seen his new one...he got a new one almost once a year. I also remember that when he would ask the same question or tell the same story more than once many people in the room would make eye contact and vacate, or just roll their eyes and prepare for the new and slightly exaggerated version. The most important thing that I will never forget is the love...in the way he used to touch Grandma's back as he escorted her out of the room, the way he called her Baby when he asked if she was ready to go, the way he thoughtfully gave Buddy "people" food to make him happy, the way he offered to help with projects around so many different houses, and the way his wet-lipped kisses felt as he greeted us and as he said farewell. I know that with such a huge family, parts of him and my Grandmother will live on. I can guarantee this, because people don't die as long as their memories still live. Cherish life and remember you never know if you'll get to say goodbye. I'm sorry if this took an emotional turn...it's just where my writing went this evening.