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My grandpa died this weekend. He's been going downhill that past 10 years, and it is with great joy that his earthly body is replaced with his heavenly one. On the Sabbath he found his Eternal Sabbath.
We've been expecting it all week, and left our Thanksgiving gathering wondering how soon we'd be together again. Quite soon.
Ellis and I got haircuts today. We're driving out to Iowa, leaving Wednesday, with my parents for the funeral on Saturday.
Earlier in the week, my mom and I put together a CD mix full of songs she knew her dad would like. She sent it overnight. Even though he was in a stroke-induced coma, if music could through, it should be there.
My grandpa had a beautiful voice. His "signature" song is "Ol' man river" from starring in Showboat in high school. I remember him singing hymns, in his deep, strong voice. I was in college before I realized that families typically don't gather around the piano (or the dishes) to sing together. So I imagine there will be singing this weekend. A taste of heaven.
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I'm sorry about your grandpa. Have a safe trip to Iowa. Hugs!
Posted by: Keri | November 26, 2007 10:14 PM
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I am sorry to hear about your grandpa. Have a safe trip
Posted by: Mishka Zena | November 26, 2007 11:17 PM
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I'm so sorry to hear about your grandpa.
Posted by: Harriet | November 27, 2007 07:43 AM
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Hi J, We will pray for safe travel for y'all this week. I hope you can find some joy the songful home sending for your grandfather. My father's song is also Ole Man River...tote dat barge, lif dat bale.....
Posted by: Kathy | November 27, 2007 09:46 AM
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Another reason to look forward to Glory. So sorry for your loss, Jeannette.
Posted by: RT | November 27, 2007 02:08 PM
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So sorry Jeannette, but as you have said, he is certainly at peace now. Have a safe journey.
Posted by: Hetha | November 27, 2007 02:11 PM
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Looking forward to seeing you all!!!! And singin' some great music! Is Nick coming? Sam?
Posted by: sperlonga | November 27, 2007 02:59 PM
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Oh Jeannette, I am so sorry to hear this. I hope being with your family is healing. Take care of yourself! -Lauren M.
Posted by: Lauren | November 27, 2007 04:31 PM
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I'm glad you and your mom made the CD for him. When my grandma had a stroke, she could only say half a dozen words afterwards, but she could sing all of the verses to her favorite hymns. It's amazing how God has created our brains in a way that music can be such a comfort.
I hope your trip goes well. *big hug*
Posted by: Jo | November 27, 2007 05:59 PM
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Sorry for the loss of your Grandpa. May you have many happy memories each time you hear "Ole Man River."
Posted by: Deaf Mom | November 28, 2007 10:09 AM
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I'm so sorry to hear this. Even when expected, loss is never easy. You're in our prayers.
Posted by: Anastasia | November 28, 2007 11:42 AM
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J- I'm so sorry to hear about your grandpa. But happy, too.
Posted by: Amanda K | December 3, 2007 10:00 AM