A Sad Week

Kim's grandfather died this week. We drove to South Bend to be with family and try to help out in any way we could. It is difficult when someone dies. There is never an "answer" and the right words to say to others always seems to elude my tongue.

I am glad that Kim has had so many years to get to know her grandparents. While I have a handful of memories with my own Grandparents, I always have wished that I could have known them better. My life with Kim and her family has allowed me to spend more time with her Grandparents and appreciate more what previous generations have lived through. Growing-up in Alaska, my grandparents were in Seattle and Chicago and I usually saw them once a year. I remember looking forward to my trips to Chicago especially because it meant visiting the city and getting to ride the "L" and see the skyscrapers and maybe even take-in a Cubs game. And while I enjoyed visiting my Bubbie and Zadie, I didn't understand very well the importance of conversation and asking questions. I wish I could have heard my Grandfather tell me about his experiences in the War, or hear my Grandmother tell me her version of how they met. I vaguely recall them giving me pieces of advice to study hard and respect my parents, and I know they loved me very much, but I only have these snippets.

So, while it is painful to have lossed Kim's Grandfather, I am so thankful that she has had him in her life so long. I am grateful that Audrey has had a chance to meet her Great-Grandfather. I feel blessed that he treated me like one of his own grandchildren from the day he met me.

Here are some more pictures of Audrey on her 6 month birthday! She's being held by Grandma Dixie and Aunt Beth! She has been a bright point during this past week of sadness. I am attempting to get some shots of her when she's NOT smiling...but that kiddo is so darn happy! Shout out to Gail for the IU outfit!

-a