Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Unexpected First Flight

Wish me luck peeps. Tomorrow I am taking Jack on his first flight....and it wasn't a planned one. We weren't supposed to be doing this until next weekend when we fly down to Albuquerque with Crazy Grandma and Big Butter for my cousin's wedding. But on Monday we received a call that Grandpa Gumbo passed away. I am not sure of all the details, but I think it was a heart attack.

As you may recall, Big Butter and I flew out in December to visit him before I couldn't travel anymore. I had this strange desire at the time to go see him...and it turns out it was a good thing. I am so glad that we made that trip. I am so glad I was able to capture these moments with him. Stand in the kitchen watching him mix up a batch of cornbread. Sitting at the table we had sat at every year since I can remember. Kissing the top of his bald head as he rested in his chair.
I knew that he wasn't feeling well. He hasn't felt well for years. He had cancer in his spine and since they removed it, about 7 years ago, he's been in pain. He's had numerous surgeries to try to help with the pain and nothing has really worked. So despite the fact that tears were rolling down my cheeks as I pulled Jack in closely after hearing the news, I think this was better for Grandpa Gumbo. I selfishly wish he had been able to meet Jack and hold him and I selfishly hate that we won't be making another trip to Lousiana with him in November. But in my heart I know this is better for Grandpa Gumbo. He is no longer in pain and I am just so lucky to have known this man.
It is amazing to learn about where you come from. This man was an orphan who taught himself how to read; he only completed the 6th grade. He supported his wife through her bachelors and masters degrees; meanwhile he was content being a grounds keeper and driving a school bus. He made a mean BBQ sauce and everyone begged him for the recipe. He was proud of all of us and he wasn't afraid to say it. I am so honored to be his grand-daughter and I can't wait to tell Jack all about him.



9 comments:

  1. I am so sorry. It's devastating I know. So glad you made that trip and have those memories. Thinking of you.

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  2. I was just thinking that you must feel such relief after seeing him just a few months ago. So sorry for your loss and I hope everything goes smoothly for you over the next few weeks. I hope to bring a smile to your face at the end of your trip. :)

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  3. I'm so sorry for your loss but I totally understand the overwhelming feeling of going to see your grandfather. I had the same feeling last week when I was in the Mid-West and really wanted to see my grandparents. Just like Bunkey will know my dad through stories, you'll make sure Nugget knows Grandpa Gumbo through your stories! Thinking about you as you make this very difficult trip....

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  4. Awh - this post brought tears to my eyes Natalie. He sounds like a wonderful man. Safe travels with little Jack tomorrow...

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  5. I am so sorry about your grandpa friend. :( I hope you guys have a safe flight....

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  6. I'm so sorry for your loss. Hugs...

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  7. I'm sorry to hear that. I hope you and Jack have save travels.

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  8. I'm so so so sorry for your great loss. It's wonderful you have such fantastic memories to cherish him by.

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  9. I am so sorry for your loss. Cherish the memories.

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