Wednesday, August 27, 2008

90 years old! Happy Birthday!

And still a kid at heart.



I love Poppy! He is my mothers father, my only living grandpa. He is a powerful example of love, strength, and is a spiritual ensign in this world full of frightful things.

When I think of Poppy several things pop into my head; without a doubt-"Poppy McMuffins", we've tried to make them ourselves, but they never seem to turn out just like his.
My cousin Melanie and I would spend the night up at Nonny and Poppys house, as we wanted to hang out and their house was the middle point-which worked out perfectly because we Loved their house. We always either did a craft or baked something new, but Poppy would always look after us and stop us so we could eat lunch. I still crave those chocolate milkshakes/drinks he would make. They were delicious! And I have GOT to learn how to make them. We'd also eat toasted cheese/tomato sandwiches on their homemade bread. Yum! And for dessert, whether it would be for lunch or dinner, we were treated to his homemade chocolate or strawberry ice cream. Boy did he spoil us! And boy do I LOVE his ice cream!-one scoop was never enough!
He used to drive to meet my mom half way so that I could spend the night at their house, and I remember that he would listen to either talk radio or a station that would play 30's, 40's, 50's music. I didnt particulary love it at the time, but that memory brings a smile on my face. And now, I try to look for those stations on the radio.

One particular memory I have is when I was in junior high. Melanie and I had had one of our sleepovers, I dont remember details, but I do remember there was a pair of jeans that I wanted so badly at Old Navy. Nonny, Melanie and I must have gone window shopping the day before and I couldn't stop thinking about those jeans. I had a job, but only had a check & didnt have a way to cash it (no photo ID & no transportation). (That independent side of me was making its way out and drove me crazy cause I was too young to drive.) After working up enough courage, I asked Poppy if he wouldnt mind lending me the money and taking me to get those jeans before we drove to meet up with my mom, and that I would pay him back when I was able to cash my check. He gladly and lovingly helped me out. I dont remember what happened to those jeans but I do remember the way he was willing to help me and the loving manner in which he did.

One Christmas, a few years ago, my family and I went to visit Nonny & Poppy and spent the morning listening to stories of their young married life. I wish we could have more times like that. I regret not getting to know him better, but in his quiet way I have got to know him through the way he has treated his family. Talk about a true gentlemen. I know he loves Nonny, I've seen the way he takes care of her when he is having bad days and can barely take care of himself. He is a man that loves his wife with all his heart. A man that loves his family (his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren). I am so grateful that he was able to seal Jason and I together forever & that we have his wonderful example to follow.

I hope you had a great birthday and that this year will be filled with magic and miracles that you are most definately deserving of. I love you Poppy!

1 comment:

Randy and Sarah said...

I think Randy and I have done selaing with your Poppy. He looks so familiar. I am glad that you have such a great grandfather. Your description of him reminds me of my Grandpa Mortensen. Hope you are all are doing well.

Sarah