10/29/2008

Pa

Almost every mental image I have of my father-in-law is of him with one of the kids. Showing Al the "pond"--does 3 inches deep the size of a bed count as a pond? Climbing in & out of a 3 ft by 5 ft Strawberry Shortcake play tent with Princess for hours--he even fell asleep in it once. Turning on the spigot just so a 3-yr old little boy could spray the garden hose, who cares if it's a chilly fall day and the trees are already dormant, right? He loved to take them all fishing or down to see the beaver that built a dam not far from the house. If he was sitting, at least one of them was at his side. Or just shrugging and grinning when I caught him sneaking Oreos to the kids, after I caught my mother-in-law sneaking them some cake, after they'd already had dessert. My father-in-law was a quiet person. He was a loving grandfather & not just to his grandchildren, but to any child in his presence. He was uncomplicated. He was a gentleman as well as a gentle man. He is gone far too soon.

8 comments:

LoSpace said...

What a beautiful memorial. Very touching. Some people really have the gift.

Anonymous said...

Pa was a very gentle man for sure. I think he was a wonderful husband, father and for sure, one of the best grandparents. His quietness said so much. He will be missed by so many. What a tragic loss. My heart goes out to all his family. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers. Love you, Mom

Andrea said...

Oh, Paula! So sorry to hear of your family's loss! You are in our prayers.

Queen B said...

I am so sorry :( very loving tribute... gives us a real sense of the loss

Anonymous said...

That was a nice tribute, I feel like I know him alittle now. My prayers and thoughts are with you. I am sure he will be greatly missed. Aunt Rae

Jinjer said...

So sorry for the loss :(

Ruth Anne said...

Great tribute. I am sorry for your loss.

Jane said...

I love you!!!