Tuesday, January 26, 2010

2010

Way behind- AGAIN or maybe I should say STILL. I am not going to try and catch up. I am going to just start over and do better with 2010...
I must say so far, not loving 2010. It has been a sad year :(
First we said goodbye to Curtis' brother and his family, who moved to Kentucky for a job. Although we didn't see them as often as we would have liked, it was comforting knowing they weren't too far away. We are so happy they get to have this adventure in Kentucky, but we will miss them! A lot!!
Then, on Friday, January 22 my Bubba had a massive stroke in the night and passed away later that evening. Words can not express the sadness I have felt over the past few days. I was very close to my Grandfather. I am so grateful for the time I did have with him. I am very lucky to have many, many wonderful memories of him. He taught me to drive. He wouldn't say much, in fact at times he would read the newspaper while I was behind the wheel (such trust!?), but just when I thought he wasn't paying attention he would tell me what to do. He also taught me to play backgammon. Bubba liked his sleep, and always went to bed early, unless we were playing cards, or backgammon. And he would NEVER let you win. EVER! It was so frustrating when we were younger, but as we got older, and could actually beat him we knew it was the real deal! He was an amazing card player, I have many fond memories of playing cards with him. We often accused him of cheating, because he always won- (for the record he didn't cheat, it just made us feel better). One of the BEST things about Bubba were what we coined "bubbaisms". He had phrases, sayings, that I can remember him using from the time I was a little girl. Anyone who knew him could name a few I am sure. A few favorites, "Bubba loves you, loves you, loves you." He always said this when he hung up the phone with you. "I am perfect in every way." I can remember him even saying this in church when his Pastor would announce that no one was perfect :) "I'll do all the work, you just sit around and look pretty." This was said often, very often. Like if he did the dishes, or took out the trash. "Hey pill, I mean pal." I used to hate this as a kid. I am crying just thinking about how I will never hear it now. "Hollywood's after me." or "they just want me for my body." Ah, he had the best sense of humor. He loved milkshakes, and we would always make a few trips to the Shakeshop when we visited him. He also made THE best Fried Egg sandwiches. He LOVED his mayo. (he would only eat Helman's) and we always teased him about his generous amount he put on EVERYTHING! He felt the same way about butter :) He loved my girls, and was always quick to ask about them and Curtis whenever I called. I am so glad that they were all able to meet him, and spend time with him. More than anything, I am thankful that life is eternal and we will see him again. I miss you and LOVE you Bubba!!!!!

6 comments:

Unknown said...

You have me crying. He sounds like a funny wonderful man. I remember meeting him many times in GA and I also remember you guys talking about him alot. What a sweet tribute to him. All of those memories are so sweet and such a blessing you have had so much time with him. What a blessing it is that you will see him again one day. You are in my prayers. Hugs!!

Larson Family said...

So sorry for your loss. It is always sad when we loose someone we love. Thank goodness you know you will see him again, it makes it a little easier. We miss you guys already! There was a little girl named Ansley at the store and it made me get teary thinking about how much Apri misses Ansley! Again, sorry about your Grandfather we will keep you and your family in our prayers.

Rose said...

How nice for you to have known him so well, I'm guessing he was your Grandpa, I hardly know mine.

Heather Davies said...

Wow, your grandpa was hilarious! Having someone close to you die is so hard, but you are handling it so positively. I'm sure he's watching you now, and is very proud of how you are living your life.

Sarah said...

Oh Taylor! I am in tears after reading your sweet tribute to your Bubba. I am so glad I got to meet him. He was a wonderful man and you could tell how much he loved his family. You are on my heart during this difficult time. Big hugs!

Cassie said...

I love your grandpa too, now. It sounds like he was such a great person to be around. At least for me, one neat thing about people dying (the only other one is knowing where they are going and that you will see them again) is that it makes you feel like you now need to carry on their good traits, like service or love of family or whatever. Now it's your turn to carry on some of your grandpa's awesome characteristics for you family.