Grandpa

As some of you may read Nic and Ashley's blog...I, too, wanted to recognize a wonderful man in my life...my Grandpa.

My Grandpa has been someone I've loved since day one. In fact, one of my first memories is practicing music with him. My twin sister, Ashley, and I used to sing with Grandpa in church. This was a regular happening. I loved singing "A Childs Prayer" with him. It was so special and it still is.

I cherish a lot about my Grandpa. One of the many things I love about him is his loyalty. My Grandpa would die for anyone in his family. I know that sounds cliche' but it is 110% the truth! He would give anything and everything for his family. That includes his life. I admire that about him.

Another thing I cherish about my Grandpa is his ability to share what he has, even though it wasn't served to him on a silver platter (maybe that is why he's so willing. He knows how blessed he is because he had to work for it). My Grandpa has had to work H-A-R-D for what he has. He had a rough childhood, in regards to worldly things, and endured through a lot of hard work and experiences to enable himself. He is an example of someone who takes their experiences and becomes better from them. And even with all the blood, sweat, and tears put into his possessions he still shares. It's a common thing for my Grandpa and Grandma Judi to have the widows in their neighborhoods over for Sunday dinner...just one of the small ways he makes a difference in his community. It doesn't stop there either. His heart is enormous. His soul is so good and loving.

My Grandpa has always had an eye on everyone in his family. He is such a great patriarch. He leads and guides through example. Travis has commented numerous times on how little my Grandpa says when with others. But Travis is always sure to point out that when my Grandpa speaks it's either with humor or with an abundance of knowledge. In other words, he doesn't just speak up to speak up; he listens. And when he has something to say, he says it. But he doesn't just talk to talk. He uses wisdom, experience, humor, and love in his words. And the cool thing is is that sometimes he doesn't have to say a thing. His presence is enough. He has a great aura about himself. I believe this is because of his good character.

My Grandpa has done a wonderful job loving and caring for his family. He has lived an example of endurance, persistence, determination, fearlessness, righteousness, and kindness. I believe he has been and will continue to be rewarded for it.

I love you Grandpa. I hope you had a wonderful birthday.