In memory

A lot has happened since I last posted.  On April 20th, my grandfather, for whom Wild Man is named, died, just a few months shy of his 89th birthday. While his death was not unexpected, it was still shocking.  While I'm happy he is no longer missing my grandmother, who died 2 1/2 years ago, I am sad he is gone.  He was one of the few people I firmly believed loved me unconditionally.  Our relationship was easy.  He placed no demands on me.  He was just my grandfather.  He was always happen to see me and thrilled when I called him.  I was born on his birthday, and for that reason, I think we always shared a special bond. 

He was a coal miner for more than 30 years, so I wanted to share this image of him.  I don't associate him with the mines, as I knew a very different side of him.  I still think this image captures him as I remember him best, smiling, relaxed, calm.  He was a wonderful person, and I miss him very much.

My grandfather

George and I visited my grandfather last week.  I'd like to say it was a lovely visit.  I'd like to say that George bonded with my grandfather.  I'd like to say I feel like the visit was worthwhile.  Unfortunately, I can't.  My grandfather is miserable.  He is exhausted.  He is lonely.  He is depressed.  He is ready to die.  I think he has been since my grandmother died in 2010.  I think I could handle all of that if he hadn't gotten mean, but alas, he is so unhappy to still be alive that he is unpleasant to be around.  That makes me really, really sad.

My grandfather's advice

On Sunday evening, Archer called my grandfather to tell him about the pregnancy.  My grandfather, who is 87, said, "Don't you know what causes that yet?"  And then he laughed.  He explained to Archer that he also knows about "surprises."  My mother was born on her older sister's first birthday, so I'm quite certain her arrival was a bit shocking as well.  After a few moments Archer passed the phone to me, and I chatted with my grandfather for awhile. As we were saying good-bye, he gave me one last piece of advice to share with Archer: "Tell him to sleep facing the wall from now on."  He was laughing loudly as he hung up the phone.  I love my grandfather.