Today I visited my grandma and grandpa. I certainly don't do this as often as I should and each time I do, I am reminded why. It's so nice being with family. These two souls are the epitome of love to me. Grandma and Grandpa have been married over 63 years and they are still kickin! Though things have changed quite a bit for them with Grandpa living in the nursing home, their love abounds.
I just got back from a trip in Nashville late last night. Got in around 1am. Slept in a bit and with the whole day available, I set off around 10:30am to meet Grandma after church. I arrived just before the close of the service. It was nice to walk into this church and hear the church praying for others in their community and families who needed to be encouraged. It was also nice to see a group of different people worshipping together in unity.
Lunch was the main topic of discussion as we drove to town to eat. Grandma picked a wonderful place and we just chatted all the way there! I just love being at the age where the generations just come together.....instead of family hierarchy, we have friends who just happen to be family.....and that is really cool!
We chatted about work, the family, updates on the kids, and a host of other topics while eating a grand meal. And then came dessert: pumpkin pie: who can resist!?!? Food has always been a piece of happiness for me, and when shared with a friend, it's just plain better!
Off to the nursing home to visit with Grandpa. He was awake when we arrived and that made me happy. It was so good to talk with him and hear him make comments, laugh, and wiggle the bed while doing so! His body may be getting older, but his "him" is still there! That also makes me happy. As hard as it is to see his body start to give up, God obviously has a purpose in his staying with us a little longer. And with His purposes in the forefront, I'll just trust that He knows what Grandpa needs these days.
I loved watching Grandma and Grandpa interact. The love is sweet, enduring, and impossible to miss. The eyes, the sweet-talking, and Grandma rubbing Grandpa's head. After 63 years, it must just be "normal." To me, it is amazing. Without talking, they share a love that is grounded deep....really deep. And it's obvious.
Heading home, Grandma began to reminisce a little and talked of all the items she and Grandpa have kept over the years......and then she mentioned "the blocks." Oh, the memories flooded in! You see, I loved those blocks. They were on the stairs in the old house, where I played when I was little - - apparently a really little guy and then more time was spent with them when I was the big brother too!
Anyway, I knew where they were and got them when I wanted to play with them. And Grandma gave them to me today....and I teared up. I just LOVE those blocks. they remind me of Great-Grandma and Great-Grandpa....and they remind me of the times we would all play password in the old house....and they remind me of Grandpa and Grandma drinking coffee in the early, early of the morning and my brother and I would hear them talking, though just a murmur.
Wooden blocks and pumpkin pie. Memories of old and Friendships anew.
And a love that transcends time - - - from family - - - and from God.
