remembering OPA

My husband's father died unexpectedly on August 4. He had a massive stroke and just couldn't hold on after it happened. It is so hard to watch someone you love (my husband) lose someone he loved (his dad). Opa (German for Grandpa) was also a person who I was very fond of. He had a good heart and absolutely loved to talk, laugh, and crack jokes. Although, it always seemed to me that he had a very dry sense of humor. Sometimes it was hard to know whether or not he was actually joking or not.

The last time I saw Opa was in the hospital during July 4 week. He was in for a routine procedure that he had had a few times before. Austin and I got to say hello to him, talk to him for a few minutes, and give him a hug. I gave him two hugs that day and I'm so glad that I did because that was the very last time I will see him alive. I'm so glad I got to talk to him that day and give him a hug "goodbye", as we were going back home to Michigan from his home in Rochester, New York. I will treasure that memory always.

We have heard from and seen many relatives during the last few weeks and have enjoyed spending time with them. It is just sad that it had to be under these circumstances. Austin also got see his cousins, Catie and Patrick. He had fun playing with them. He also enjoyed seeing his Uncle Steve's cat, Frankie. Unfortunately, Frankie didn't want to play with Austin.

Things have gone on here in Michigan. We got a new/used 2001 Honda Odyssey minivan and we love it. Austin ended his gymnastics class, and we have been trying to get some of the chores done around here that we have been putting off forever.

However, even though our lives are busy, we are still thinking of Opa and the memories that we have of him that will live on in us for the rest of our lives. We will miss you, Opa. We will remember you always!