Granddaddy

If you read this post, then you know that our life is currently in a whirlwind season!  I feel like I have not even had time to catch my breath.  In the midst of it all, our family experienced the sadness of death one more time.  While I was in Orlando at a wedding, Chad called to tell me that my Granddaddy had passed away.  I wasn't shocked (because his health had been failing), but I was still profoundly saddened.  Because of the timing (I returned to Kansas on Monday, met Chad at the airport, exchanged luggage, and he flew to Atlanta that night), I knew I couldn't possibly make it to Memphis.  Me, three tots, and a 10 hour drive just didn't compute.  Anyhow, my sister spoke on behalf of us both- we were his favorite granddaughters (and only granddaughters).  I just wanted to pay tribute to my dear Granddaddy here as well.  Here are a few pics and the words Liz read at the funeral.

April 2005

July 2007

December 2007

July 2008

Our Granddaddy

There has never been a bigger supporter and encourager than our dear Granddaddy.  He was very easily, our number one fan.  His pride swelled whether we were cheering our hearts out at a sporting event, or singing at the tops of our lungs in a drama production.  He had a way of making us feel like the most accomplished kids in school.

Through countless Grandparent Day functions, holiday meals, or our wild antics jumping on their bed, our Grandmother and Granddaddy loved us unabashedly.  We knew that Granddaddy was going to brag about us extensively to his church friends and anyone else who would listen, so we felt as if we had a standard to uphold.  Who would want to disappoint Granddaddy?  This total admiration easily molded us into the granddaughters, daughters, sisters, and mothers that we are today.  Granddaddy’s love for and delight in his grandchildren’s lives is a trait that will span generations in our family.  Already, our parents dote on their grandchildren and it will only seem fitting for us to do the same.  Granddaddy’s example of delight and esteem is one we can all aspire to.  Jesus told the disciples, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”  (John 13:35)  Our Granddaddy was clearly a disciple of Christ, as evidenced by his immense love for us, as well as so many others.