Last week we got together with Matt's family for a picnic and a small celebration. The kids were thrilled to see the cousins and the playground, Matt and his brothers began their usual conversations regarding the water levels of their favorite fishing holes. I joined the other two wives updating each other on the kids and our summer plans while Grandma set out a delicious meal of BBQ sandwiches and yummy salads. Off to the side, quietly watching the bustle that accompanies such outings, were the reasons for our gathering. Great Grandpa and Great Grandma were celebrating their anniversary this day.
Caught up in the excitement of the occasion I very nearly let the moment pass me by without really acknowledging the amazing fact that these two wonderful people had been together through all of the ups and downs and ins and outs of marriage for 64 years and had obviously done it so well. It wasn't until later, when I had a quiet moment to think, that it really sank in what greatness we were witness to. After the meal, we quieted the kids for a few moments while Grandpa and Grandma sat at the end of the picnic table and shared their story. Where they met, what they did for their first date, their wedding day...it was delightful!
Today is Grandpa's 88th birthday. On Memorial Day we visited him and thanked him for his years as a serviceman. He flew in the Pacific theatre during WWII on a B-24 as the radio operator. He told us as we visited that although he can't remember what he ate for breakfast this morning, he can still translate morse code as easy as breathing. He made a career as a physical education instructor at USU and then spent nearly thirty years before and after retirement in service at the Logan LDS Temple. His kindness and generosity seems to know no bounds and his love and example is a guide for our lives.
We love you Grandpa and Grandma. Thank you forever for your legacy of love, faith, and family!
5 comments:
This is the very, very best kind of story: long lived love, family, and fellowship. How well written it is, and how I loved reading it!
that is a good looking bunch!! and happy birthday to your grandpa...we thank him for his service..
I am praying for baby Jacob from Nanas blog...he was just put on ECMO today.
What a wonderful story 64 yrs together is amazing everyong looks like they were having a great time
We so much need to treasure our elders and tell them how greatful we are for all they've done, all the sacrifices they've made for us, and we need to do this while there's still time.
What a wonderful, refreshing post. I loved every second of reading this. I want to be your great-grandparents. They are a prime example of enduring to the end.
That last picture is priceless.
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