…orphaned as a young boy…a lesson that has given him wisdom, taught him self-reliance, and such generosity and love for his family today. Rich in stories and experience, we are indeed thankful for all moments we are blessed to spend with him. We learn from his company, his stories, and are better from his example of how to give and share. From him, we awe in how can can turn rollerskating into an art (you should see him on those wheels) and how much he loves to share the rink with his family. Industrial and handy…he can fix it and teaches to use what you have first. He dubs my girls (and all his grand and great-grand {his children too}) his “earth angels.” He tells me all the time that this period of my life with my young children is my “Heaven on earth”. He is indeed right and I am blessed by all the family in my life that makes this earth a Heaven. Father to my Mother…a person whom I am eternally greatful to have. I am sure much of her goodness has come from him. I love you, grandpa!
Great Grandma Joyce…
Famous for her beautiful embroidery…from handpeiced quilts to those cherished christmas dish towels. I remember summer vacations to her home, days playing in the pool, hanging out in the back room at the Downey home, and trips in the motorhome. Her chocolate chip cookies and large family dinners bring back fun childhood memories. Thrifty, thoughtful, and tidy…her home is always perfectly put together and such a comfortable and safe place. My girls love it there and I love that they play with the same doll house that I enjoyed as a young girl. I admire her for her many talents, and as a mother of young children I can not even begin to imagine the loss she has had to endure in her life. I am thankful for the namesake that my brother carries…and for the greater love and appreciation for life that experience has taught me. I love you, grandma.
Ella tells me about her great-grandpa and great-grandma…
“I love to swing on their swing”
“I feel…like…happy when they come over”
“It is fun playing toys, coloring, and playing puzzles”
“I like reading books with them”
“I like eating animal crackers”
“I love them soooo much”
4 comments