Watched Out The Way

We weren't sure how much longer we would have my sweet Grandaddy when I wrote the below prose a couple years ago. We celebrated his 94th birthday with him this weekend, and we knew all too well it was coming. Thankfully, the Lord took him quietly and without suffering on Wednesday morning.

If I had to say one thing I'm grateful for from his presence in my life, it would be that he never lost his childlike faith and spirit, til his last day. His joy was ever present, even in the midst of barely being able to hold his head up to say hello. He was a such a blessing to know and love, and this weekend, I will be celebrating his brave return home to his Father. Watched out the way, Grandaddy. Watched out the way.

(I couldn't think of a better memory than this.)

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"Goody, goody, goody" my aging grandfather said,

As he made his way to the candy corn.

His wife watched with a disapproving glare,

And yet, she secretly enjoyed his boy like passion.

He sped to the candy with ease,

And without walker, amazingly enough,

Entranced by this sweet temptation.

And as he grabbed a handful and

Stuffed them in his coat pocket,

All he could say was, "Goody, goody, goody..."

He shoved several in his mouth,

Before he even got back his seat.

She smilingly said, "Shame on you, Jack."

He simply looked over, mouth full of happiness

And barely able to utter the word, "What?"

I laughed as this old man

Had become young again, in heart and mind,

Only, not by choice.

His body showing proof,

That it won't be much longer

That I get to see him enjoy

The simplest of pleasures.

This weekend, I absolutely did.