Continuing On

I traveled down the freeway to help my parents with the estate sale this weekend. Pops watched the kids for me so I could go and really be available. We accomplished a lot, though the burden continues. It is a strange and taxing thing, to dissolve a household. We are praying for a miracle in this real estate market. We need to sell the house.

I also was able to spend some time each day with my grandfather. This was a joy. His confusion and tender emotions are still present, but he is improving. It must take a lot of fortitude to settle into a new life, in a new place, without Grandma.

Today, when I went to visit, we read from the book of Romans. "I like it all," he responded, when I asked him what his favorite book was. But we settled on Romans, as it was his favorite book to teach from. I would read, then pause ... waiting for his still astute observations and commentary. He is so engaged and clear-headed when discussing the Bible. We did this for a good hour.

I noticed in the basket on his desk, a card. This card I penned a good 25 years ago. Goodness, I drew those butterflies all the time. How touching to see it and wonder how it survived all these years.

Grandad has photos of the family in the entryway of his new apartment. I believe it's his wall of pride. He told me: "I walk past this wall and look at these photos. This is my family. Not every time, but almost, I stand here for a moment and look at them. And I pray for them."

I love belonging to him.