One of the songs in the slideshow was Over the Rainbow, and at first this made me upset, I thought to myself why would you ruin one of my favorite songs, now every time I hear it I would think of grandpa. However, during finals week I was completely stressed out and turned on my Pandora radio, of course Over the Rainbow came on, and even though tears rolled down my face, I realized that this song was actually pretty perfect for my grandpa.
One verse specifically stood out to me when I started thinking about the life that my grandpa led.
"Where troubles melt like lemon drops, high above the chimney tops that's where you'll find me."
My grandpa was always called the candy man. Everywhere he went he always had a pocket full of lifesavers to hand out to anyone that would take one. After every high school game he would be waiting outside the locker room handing out lifesavers. This always started up conversation with people, and everyone who knew my grandpa loved him.
Some of the many things that have stuck out to me in the 21 years that I knew my grandpa were that he always seemed like he never had a care in the world. He lived his life to the fullest and made every day count. He spent a lot of his time at the golf course and he loved my grandma unconditionally. My grandpa was the guy that you could call and say I need help and he would be over in ten minutes. He was good at fixing things and loved helping people.
As sad as I am that grandpa is gone, I know that I will see him again and I cannot wait for that day! I know he is up in heaven causing trouble, playing golf with his buddies, and watching over our family. As Christmas time approaches quickly, just remember not to get so wrapped up in gifts, and trees, and lights. Remember to cherish your family and spend every moment that you can with them, whether you normally get along or not. Life is short, and we are never promised tomorrow. So love on everyone a little extra this holiday season, and tell people how much they mean to you.
I miss you every day grandpa and I can't wait to see you 'Somewhere over the Rainbow.' You taught me so many valuable things even if you weren't aware of it. Most importantly you taught me to love this crazy, tragic, sometimes almost magic, awful beautiful life that I have been blessed to have. :)
