Happy Birthday Grandpa

 
Happy 88th Birthday Grandpa!
I hear you are heading home soon. My heart is such a mix of happiness and grief. They tell me that it won't be long until you pass through the veil that separates us from perfection, peace, wholeness and eternal life. You are almost home.

I have a few things I want to share with you today. Though I know you may not be able to hear or understand, I love you Grandpa.

I have always had a special place in my heart for you, as you were the only Grandpa that lived in driving distance, the one I saw the most. I remember you telling me how your mother, Svea, had died when you were only a toddler. You said that you asked my parents to name me after her. Whatever the details, I am so proud to be Svea, named for your mother, a connection to our Swedish ancestral homeland, and a connection to you.

I remember when you were lying in bed for many years, your body weak , but mind sharp. I loved climbing up on top of your cushioned mattress, and snuggling next to you as you doled out chewable, cherry flavored Vitamin Cs., and talked about Creation and the war, and meeting our Grandma, and loving the Loons of Minnesota. I am sure we grandkids thoroughly jostled your lanky frame, but you always welcomed us.

I loved listening to you sing, reminiscing about your days as a church choral soloist. Your love for singing and music is threaded through our entire family. You always encouraged us grandchildren with our piano and singing, complimenting us on our long piano fingers.

I remember the Christmas that you came out of your bed to sit with us for the first time since I was born. What a celebration! Then to see your body heal over the last 20 years and watch with amazement how you cared for your garden and trees with new found vigor.

I smile thinking of your funny responses to affectionate words or expressions of love. I think our childlike exuberance often challenged your more emotionally reserved nature, but I could see as the years went by how you adjusted to the free sharing of "I love you".
You would respond with, "Oh you do now.... Well I suppose I feel the same way about you" The twinkle in your eye showing much love and affection.

I remember you telling my husband, David, that he must be sure to kiss me lots every day. "That is the way to keep your wife happy". I loved watching you love our Grandma, a woman of such grace and strength.

One of my fondest recent memories with you was when I was pregnant with my first daughter, Eiley. I came to visit and with a very large pregnant belly. I remember teasing you about touching the baby in my belly. Well, in a totally uncharacteristic move you reached over and touched my pregnant belly and then giggled the most contagious laugh and said " I can't believe I am doing this."
I did capture a photo to prove it, and your smile says it all.


I am missing you today, on your birthday. My heart is adjusting to a bitersweet reality that soon you will be singing with another choir. I am so pleased that with Him, your mind will be whole, not ravaged by an unforgiving illness. I know that soon you will be discussing Creation and Science and the logisitcs of Noah's Ark, with the One who holds all in His hands.

Thank you Grandpa for loving Jesus and showing me how to walk a path of faith and patience in this world. Thank you for praying for our family daily, always covering your flock of 30 something.

They tell me that soon you will be going Home, I will miss you..... but I will see you soon.

I love you Grandpa

Love,

Svea