I previously asked my mom to forward on to me some pictures of my Grandfather.
They (my Grandma, Aunt and Mom) had come to a pivital point in their lives and took the plunge. They decided it was in everyone's best interest to put my Grandpa Turtle/Grawny/Grant/etc...into an assisted living home. For years my Grandma has put forth her time, energy, strength and patience into taking care of him. It became especially difficult after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's and Dementia.
Then a few unfortunate instances of forgetting my Grandma's name and calling her "Babe", leaving church and walking home on his own (just to name a few) my Aunt and Uncle brought Grandma and Grandpa into their home.
They (my Grandma, Aunt and Mom) had come to a pivital point in their lives and took the plunge. They decided it was in everyone's best interest to put my Grandpa Turtle/Grawny/Grant/etc...into an assisted living home. For years my Grandma has put forth her time, energy, strength and patience into taking care of him. It became especially difficult after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's and Dementia.
Then a few unfortunate instances of forgetting my Grandma's name and calling her "Babe", leaving church and walking home on his own (just to name a few) my Aunt and Uncle brought Grandma and Grandpa into their home.
They were able to find a WONDERFUL place that took care of elderly people during the day. Kind of like, adult-day-care. Grandpa Turtle enjoyed it, liked to interact with friends and the activities they provided. But once again, the evil diseases won over his body and clouded his mind enough to the point that 24hr care was necessary. I was proud of my family for making such a hard decision. One that I hope no one would have to make, but sure we all will at some point in our lives. If not for our spouse, but for our parents.
I remember many moments with my Grandpa. His slimy kisses on my ears, trying to nibble on them. His endless jokes that the park was closed. Never relenting on his joke, forever hoping that we would believe him. His constant care for his body by exercising, eating right and staying fit. His passion for straight lines in the carpet made by the vacuum (see it's hereditary!). His love for gardening, sports (go Dodgers and Lakers), and most of all, for the love of his beautiful, devoted wife, Grandma Jane. And how proud he was for each and everyone of his grandchildren that never failed to stand up for the gospel and serve the Lord's church righteously by marrying in the Temple, going on missions and keeping our families forever together.
And today marks another step forward in his passage through time here on earth. Today he was admitted to a hospital for Kidney failure.It won't be long now, Grandpa.
It won't be long now that you will find peace...
away from the strong-holds that bond you to this failing body.
That keep you from being the true man that you are.
It won't be long now that you will see those that have missed you.
I wished it was less, but unfortunately it has been many years since I last saw you.
Regrets.
Now is when I realize how important it is to me that you know I love you.
And that you know, I have 4 beautiful children and a wonderful husband.
And when ever I hear the song "O' My Father"...you will be the first thing to come to mind.
9 comments:
What a beautiful tribute to your grandfather. I love the pictures and the stories.
You have such a great way with words. What a talent you have.
My heart is with you and is grateful for your words. I think I'll go write my grandpa a letter. Thank you. :)
Rachel you said it so beautifully. I hope they can keep him pain free so that he can have rest in his fianl hours. Love Ya!
This is a beautiful post. Grandpas are pretty speical to little girls (at whatever age) aren't they? I'm glad for the understanding and testimony you have at this time. It sure makes a difference.
Rachel that was so sweet. I remember both of your Grandparents, (the 2nd picture is how I remember them). Grandparents sure are special!
What a good looking man. I sometimes have to stop and look at older people and remember they had lives too. They were in love, they had young babies, they went to work to support thier families, they played with their little ones, they hung out with their friends. They weren't always old, they did have lives. But we don't think of it that way and we need to. My grandpa passed away last February so I empathize with you. This is a great post!
That is just beautiful!!
Like Michelle, I didn't realize that I had actually known your grandparents, too, until I scrolled down to the second picture. I so know how you feel. My mom had to go through a lot of the same stuff several years ago with her parents and I know how tough it can be. I think you're on the right path, though with your attitude about it all. Good luck.
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