My Grandfather

Last week, my last living grandparent, Virgil Falkner, passed away. He was 2 months shy of his 90th birthday, and had lived an amazingly full life. I'm not going to list his many accomplishments, military awards, experiences, or talents...just the character traits that made him the best grandpa in the world.

He was kind and beyond generous. I will never forget the check I received from him in the mail after Calder was born. My grandpa knew that we had good insurance, but he also knew that extra medical expenses can be taxing on a family...how selfless of him to be concerned about us.

He was funny. I personally think that he saved some of his special stories and jokes just for me, because he knew that I'd laugh, even if no one else would. ;) I'm glad to have gotten some of that sense of humor.

He was gentle. I remember as a child, him "painting" our faces with a small, dry paint brush. It would nearly put us to sleep.

He was opinionated and stubborn. He was an "if it's not broke, don't fix it" kind of guy...had many strong ideas, and was never afraid to share them. I loved that about him, even if we disagreed.

He was smart. He knew just about everything and knew how to fix just about anything.

He was caring. Number one in his life was his family, ALWAYS. Spread across the country, he seldom forgot a birthday or special event...for his 11 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren (holy smokes!) and he loved and spoke often of each and every one of them.

He was humble. He never expected anything for a favor, and was more often than not, embarrassed by any attention he received. Everyone should be so lucky to have that kind of generous, yet humble spirit.

He was proud. His gallery of photos, and binders of pictures and documents displayed his pride in all he did. He walked me down the aisle at my wedding (along with my dad), with his quiet and humble pride...it was an unforgettable moment.

He was one special man, and I'm so grateful to call him my grandpa. I'm so happy that I got 35 years of time with him, and I will never forget.

I love you and already miss you Grandpa!

Let the SUMMER begin!

Summer is here, I can't believe it...this year has really just flown by! This last week was full of big events for us:

• Caydree had her last day at Ms. Linda's, her loving daycare provider, whom she has been with since she was 6 1/2 weeks old! We will miss her dearly and know that Caydree has truly had the best experiences there. She will be ready for Kinder in August, whether they are ready for her or not!
  
• Calder learned how to go on the slide all by himself (videos to follow) and now enjoys falling onto the bean bags off of the couch...the kid is FEARLESS. He also got a "big boy" haircut, and looks pretty darn cute!
  
• Shane has been working on his motorcycle. He got brave and decided that he wanted to get some things done on it, and was going to do it himself! He is pretty much dominating the garage right now, but is making progress. :) We also made our annual trip to the Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival...FUN!
  
• I finished my 1st year teaching 5th grade, and survived the entire thing! HA HA! This included a softball game in which I hit a triple, a fun "shop 'til you drop" event that gave me tattoos and blue hair, a promotion ceremony with parade, a teacher dance to "Footloose" and a luau. Did I mention it was a busy week?

Summer plans? Well, a mommy and daddy trip to Vegas, Caydree's 1st dance recital, my parents' big move back to Tucson (yay for being closer!!!) and a probable visit, beginning speech therapy for Mr. Man, and hopefully lots of swimming, lots of fun with friends, and lots of patience for mommy! ;) Those who know me well, know why I am a working mom.

Calder's big boy haircut. Yes, that is spiked with "product"...

Our fun evening at the Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival...

What a cutie, posing for mommy in the backyard!

Little Man found some new, fun games to play...only gave mommy
a heart attack the first couple of times. :)