Growing up my Grandparents on my Mom's side lived too far away to be an active part of our lives. It took over 24 hours to drive to their place so you can imagine that it was only every few years we'd have a chance to meet up. Even then for so long they lived such a different life style then us that it was foreign to just be around them. In fact it wasn't until I was a teenager that I felt like I had actually connected with them. While my Mom's parent's weren't a big part of my life I did have some amazing adopted Grandparents. Aunt Eileen and Uncle Keith were always involved in my life. They are my Mom's aunt and Uncle. Even though they lived in Idaho they rarely missed a birthday or baptism. They met every single one of my boyfriends, knew my grades, what I was struggling with and encouraged me to succeed. They supported me at grandparents day at school all through Elementary, all my recitals, my graduation and my wedding. On top of all the great memories, I always knew they loved me and I could go to them. Aunt Eileen's latest projects, her soft hugs, and her way cute giggle. Uncle Keith's radio terms, his Ernest and Lampoon quotes, his subtle humor, him proud that I married a tall red-head and him leaving his pocket coins for us every time he visited. I think I still have most of them. The summer of 2004 I brought Ethan up to their house for a visit and was comforted that everything was the exact same as it always has been. The house, their decorations, their old movie collection and even their homemade jams. It was wonderful. Unfortunately, my kids will ever get those memories with them.

Last night Uncle Keith passed away. I know he lived a long wonderful life but I still feel upset over it. Like the axis of the universe has tilted and is askew somehow. He's been sick for years with everything you can imagine but I guess I always felt like he would always be there. I haven't seen them in 2 years and I was already missing them before this but now I just feel like a fool for not finding a way to see them in so long. I know it's too late but, I love you Uncle Keith.
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