Grandpa

I got the news last week that my sweet grandpa had passed away. He passed in the most perfect way. He was in his home with women cooking in the kitchen, granddaughters talking on the couch and boys playing catch in the front yard. He was surrounded by people who loved him with a house filled with family, which is just how he would have wanted it. I was able to spend a wonderful few days out in Utah saying my goodbyes and enjoying being with my dear family.

I feel so grateful for the opportunity that Ethan had just a few short weeks ago to travel to Utah with Charlie and spend some time with Great Grandpa up at the cabin. Ethan was the last one of my little family to spend time with him before he passed away and I hope it will always be a special memory for him.

While I was there I had the chance to go through some old photos and I came across this one that I had never seen before. It is me with my grandpa in his shoe store. I quickly snatched it up and put it in a special place. I love the smile on my face looking at my grandfather. He always could make me smile like that.

The services were beautiful and I was able to hear stories that I had never heard before. My grandfather was a man of strength and spirituality. He will be greatly missed. Over the last 9 months I have said goodbye to all of my grandparents that I had ever known. While it has been difficult it has helped me grow closer to my family and it has strengthened my testimony in the gospel. I am always grateful for my understanding of eternal families. I know that it must have been a beautiful reunion between my grandmother and grandfather and I am thankful for my knowledge that they are happy and healthy together once again.
On a brighter note the positive side to a funeral is that I get to see my family. It was even more special that it was my mom's birthday so I was able to celebrate her special day with her. We had a wonderful lunch with my sister and aunt and cousin. And we also had a dinner with my sister and her wonderful kids and my dad. I just love being around family. I so wish we were closer in distance. I miss them terribly. All of this was possible thanks to my dear mother in law who came and took care of all of my very sick children while I was away. It was difficult leaving but I knew they were in good hands and it was such a comfort to me to know that they were with their grandmother. Thank you Diane...you are wonderful.

I am thankful to know that my next trip to Utah will be just for fun. We are looking forward to seeing family and enjoying some happy times together.