Grunting and Oats

Growing up we would go to my grandma's house every weekend or what felt like every weekend.  Grandma's house felt like a safe haven.  I was allowed to eat what I wanted, when I wanted, and in any amount I wanted.  Every morning Grandma made oats, now this is not your normal 90 second microwaved oatmeal.  She cooked these on the oven and unloaded enough brown sugar and butter to spike my insulin through the roof.  Most importantly, Grandma taught me to properly hug someone, you must grunt.  I cannot think of one time I hugged Grandma without grunting, even as a 24 year old man.

I loved going to Grandma's house.  I was allowed to ride on the back of the truck as Grandpa or one of my uncles drove around the farm so we could look at the cows tobacco fields.  In her front yard there were 3 perfectly placed trees that made the best whiffle ball field any 10 year old could dream of.  Her yard had too many hiding places (if there is such a thing) for hide and seek.  My cousins lived across the street and came over every time stayed there.

Then the angels came on November 7th and took my grandma.  She is now reunited in Heaven with my daddy and Aunt Linda Faye.  The funeral was small and to my surprise I balled like a kid who had his candy taken away from him.  Three weeks later and I am still sad, knowing I won't be grunting when I hug her or eating oats anytime soon.  I am thankful for  these memories, my family, and most of all my grandma.

The worst and the best

A few Saturdays ago was an emotional day.  That morning I had the privilege of attending the funeral of the father of one of my childhood friends.  All funerals are tough and difficult, but this one was especially tough and difficult.  I couldn't help but remember a time when I was in the same situation as my friend, fatherless.  Losing your  father is difficult, no matter if you're 7 or 24.

I long for the day I can rejoice in Heaven with my Father, the Creator, and my earthly father. I'm somewhat ashamed and embarrassed that selfishly I would love to be greeted by my earthly father before my heavenly Father. Why is this?  I am full of sin and for the last 17 years I have been jealous of the bond I have seen between my friends and their fathers.

That same Saturday evening I was fortunate to attend the wedding of a dear friend of mine. As I sat on the hay bale I could only think about 6 months earlier when I was in the same position as groom. And man oh man was that the best day I have ever had. A day where my best friend became wife. A day where I never had to say goodbye to my wife again. A day where my life ended and our life began.  This life of marriage is tough, but beautiful and i recommend it to anyone who is in love.