Granddaddy's Day

Last month was the first time that I only had one Jack Weatherford to call on Father's Day.  In the past I always called my Dad (III) and his dad (Jr).  Today, I remember Granddaddy because last year on this day he took his last breath.

I remember the struggle for life at the end just like it was yesterday.  I remember how many times he told me that he would see me again soon, "God  Willing" and how many times I smiled through the tears and agreed, always knowing better.  Then God did Will.  He willed that Heaven be the new home for my Granddaddy's spirit, instead of the crumbling body that he had here on Earth.

The struggle is often hard for us to think about, but right now, it consumes me.  He was so much himself during those times.  Always looking on the bright side, seemingly objective about his health statistics, but it was really his desire to be with his family that kept him alive.  He would go through spurts of being more and less depleted by the cancer in perfect alignment with my visits home.  As long as he had someone to look forward to seeing, he was happy and as healthy as he could have been.

He loved his wife.  Their marriage will always be one that I look up to.  Granddad oft reminded us that MeMe was his priority in life--his full time job for over 40 years was to keep her happy, healthy and comfortable.  Her job was to keep him company.  He didn't realize that, but really the shoe was on the other foot.

I am fascinated that my dad had two living parents until he was 63.  My mom on the other hand lost her first when she was 21 and the other was not far behind.  My parents had kids later than my dad's did, so unless they live *forever* I will be closer to Mom's shoes than Dad's, but the numbers don't really matter...love them and tell them, hug them and don't let go.

Granddaddy, I am smiling today for you.  I miss your wit and cunning as much as I miss your smirk, but you cannot know how much I miss *you*!

Love,

your only granddaughter

http://bit.ly/granddad