A Tribute...

A tribute to a role model, a mentor, a friend. A tribute to a man of character, a man of wisdom, a man of God. A tribute to my mom's father, my grandfather, the great grandfather of my sons. As I sit here typing I can't believe you're gone. There's great comfort in knowing though that through Christ the goodbye is only temporary. I will always hold dear to my heart the great many memories you gave me. To name just a few:

--Building gingerbread houses every Thanksgiving (A tradition we're passing on to our sons though I could never attempt to actually make the house from scratch like you did).
--The countless hours I spent in the doll house you made for me
--All the carvings you've done, especially the horse and the santa you made me
--Teaching me to love New York City and showing me the ins and outs
--Dancing with me at my wedding
--All the quality time you spent visiting us and us visiting you

It was because of my relationship with you and Grandma that Ryan and I chose to live in Bend; a place where our children can be close to their grandparents (most of them) and hopefully have the same strong relationship with them that I had/have with you.

I wish I could have been there Grandpa. My baby is sick so I can't make the trip. I know you understand. I will cherish forever this past summer having everyone together one last time. I love you so much and I'm so glad I had a chance to tell you that.

Goodbye for a little while; until we see each other again.

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die."
John 11:25-26