I am always going to miss my grandpop with all of my heart. Every morning I woke up, he was at the computer chair, and he always turned and smiled when he saw me come out. It was usually just him and I, and he would never stop talking to me about everything in his life. I knew about my Nan when she was young, and how beautiful she was, I knew about when he was young his teachers making him stay after school, even though he didn't do anything bad. I knew about when he was in the Marines, and all of the different places he went. I heard a lot of stories over and over again, but I can honestly and truthfully say that I can never hear them enough.
Something I am so happy he was able to see was Sarah and I graduate. He was in the hospital just a few days before, and with all of the issues he was having there, he was most concerned about getting out to see us graduate. I'm happy he did.
Of course, I feel as though I could've done more to be there and listen closely to his stories, rather than cook or go about my business as he told them. But I am glad I was able to cook and bake for him, because as we all know, he loved his food!! He always loved watching me bake in the kitchen, and I will always feel his presence standing over my shoulder as I mix the butter and sugar together. Always.
I'm so glad he moved in with us, because I really had the chance to be able to really get to know him a lot better. I'm so glad I was able to be with him through his last years, and I know, from what he would tell Sarah and I, that he was ready to be with Nan again. I couldn't be happier for him - I know he's the happiest he will ever be, and that's for eternity. I love you, Grandpop. I will never, ever forget you.
Love,
Mandy
"I don't wanna be in no bench!"
