The value of FAMILY

I know the value of family, it’s been a constant in my life. Today just reminds me how lucky we are in this wonderful family we have. Funerals are never easy for me, I got a little too much of my mom's blood where that's concerned, I also can't handle a sappy love story so take the fact that I cry on demand with a grain of salt. However, this funeral or as Pastor said Victory Celebration seemed a little easier. Maybe its cause, I look back and know that my grandpa got this one right. He picked the right bride to marry 61 years ago, he picked the right career to support his family, but most importantly, he laid the family value foundation for his children, which has been passed down to each of his grandchildren, and will continue to his great grandchildren. Today, the foundation was even more evident. I knew this already, but being there with all of us for the 3rd day in a row, made it even clearer. My grandpa knew the value of family and he instilled it in each of us. He cared enough about his family to make sure that all the arrangements were made (and paid for), down to the songs that were sung and the person singing them. Funny stories have been told over the last 3 days, ones I had never heard and others that I have heard 100 times. The fact that he was matter a fact, or the most generous man they knew were a few. And both true. Grandma and I laughed as we walked over to the church today as my 2nd (or maybe 3rd) cousin Judy said, "Ken never was a patient man, but I loved him". As GG giggled she said, “Never once have I heard him called patient, but he loved you too". Everyone in our family had a friend there for support today, I think that says something about us and the value we give our friends that in my case are included when I say the word family. From the church family, to the childhood friends, we are blessed. It makes me think back to my other set of grandparents too, how did I get so lucky to have such great family on both sides? Is everyone that lucky?

For those of you that prayed for us, brought food, came to the service, sent an email or flowers, I value your friendship and thank you from the bottom of my heart. I know my grandpa does too.
He is gone from this earth but he is still living, we will continue to pass down his legacy, the grumpy parts and all.