Grandpa

 My Grandpa passed away today.  You know that at 81 years old the time is near but it doesn't stop the sadness when it happens.  I miss him already.

 These three pictures are from when he was out this summer.  I am sure they are already on the blog, but they are what I want to share.  Rick asked me what my best memory is of him.  There are so many.

 I mostly loved how he loved my kids.  He loved to just sit and watch them be kids.  On his last visit here, we went to Aunt Carrie's and just had the kids play.  He would chuckle at the antics of the crazy Clint, or stare at Abby and say how beautiful she is.  He loved to watch Katie and came out last year to watch her play soccer.  He was a proud Great Grandpa.

I have fond memories of my own.  Grandpa taking me to the ranch to do the haying and there was a tree with mistletoe in it.  Each time we passed under the tree he gave me a kiss.  Another of my favorites was watching Grams and Grandpa dance.  They had some smooth moves!!!
Rick asked him once about his past and he told us stories of his Navy days, as well as some crazy fishing stories.
My mind reels tonight with memories.  I didn't get to say goodbye in person, but he knew I loved him, he knew we all loved him.  We will all continue to make him proud through our lives, and he will always hold such an important place in our hearts.  Now is the time our family will come together and grieve, remember, and love.
Thank you Grandpa for all you have done for me.  My life is richer because you are in it.  Watch over us now.  We will all be with you again someday so make sure to make that house up in heaven plenty big!!! I love you!!!

Katie Girl

 Seven years ago Rick and I were eagerly awaiting the arrival of our little girl.  She was late.  Very late!    But that just made us more eager to meet her.  We didn't know what to name her but when she was born she looked to me like a Kathryn.

 What a beautiful baby she was.  No hair, big eyes, and a wonderful smile.  She was the center of our lives.  She grew so very fast!

She was (and still is) always looking for ways to make us laugh.  She loves to be surrounded by happiness.  She was our only child for 4 years.

Then her little brother (or little bother) came along and she was overjoyed.  She is such a great big sister.  She helps out, gives lots of love, and puts up with Clint, who at 2 is a handful!

Then she had another sister on her hands and she hasn't ever regretted us having Abby.  I see so many siblings who display jealousy and that has never been a part of Katie's makeup.  She just welcomes each new sibling with love and affection.  She loves her little sister so much, but I bet she hopes we don't have to deal with her like we do her little brother!!

She is my pretty, pretty, princess!

Happy 7th Birthday Katie Girl!!!  You are growing up so fast, and Daddy and I are so excited to be with you each and every moment!!