My Grandad (my dad’s dad) is my last living grandparent. He’s had a couple of strokes in the last year or so and has had a rough time in general since my Granny has passed. It’s to be expected when you’ve lived a good, long life and lost your wife of 65 years.
Currently, he’s been living with my Aunt Karen and Uncle Lee Roy. Right before we left for our cruise, he had to have emergency surgery for a hernia that they were afraid might be doing damage to his intestines. This is probably more detail than any of you want or need to know but the reason I say all of this is that, with all of the health issues he’s had, we are so very lucky to still have him around. He’s a trooper.
Today we loaded up the four kiddos and headed to Hamilton, actually Aleman if you want to be specific, to go see him at the Blowin’ O, Aunt Karen and Lee Roy’s farm. We took fried chicken and my mom and dad met us there with the sides and some freshly baked bread.
We had a great lunch and got to visit for a good while. Grandad enjoyed getting to watch the kids playing. They’re really into pretend and played Mommy and Baby, tucking each other in, as well as taking turns being doggies. He even got to experience a twin fight, complete with biting and hitting.
We got a few hugs in, took a few pictures (which didn’t turn out all that great but they’re special to me), and said our goodbyes until our next trip. As negative as it may seem to say this, you never know when your last visit will be with any of your loved ones. Because of this, we really try to cherish our time together and make the most of every minute we’re given.
We’re so fortunate to have such a great family, both immediate and extended. I’m thankful for them all. I so appreciate the care that my Aunt Karen and Uncle Lee Roy provide to Grandad every day and for welcoming us all into your house to see him.