Friday, August 29, 2014

Grandma Simpson

Dear JJ,

When I told you that my mom was sick and not feeling well you looked at me and said, "Grandma Simpson?" Amazing that my four year old gets that connection. But still, this is a hard one.

We have to go visit her, and she is now in a home to help her. My mom loves you- when we told her that we were going to have you it was one of the happiest times I have seen her.  She, more than anyone, loves to get you cars and trucks as toys - because she had boys and knows how much we love those.

Now she is having a hard time, with her memory and her thinking - but she still loves you.

Do you know what the hardest part for me is- I can't call her. Because I use to call her every day, and it isn't something that I can do. So I pass word on to her by my dad, Grandpa Simpson.

We all get old, son. We will go and visit her, and see a lot of her over the next months - as much as it takes. But I hope you see one thing: as your mom and I get older, please keep in touch. It will mean a lot to us, as it does to my mom.

Love,

Dad
On our last visit, it was one of the last times my mom was able to be in her home

Mom loves getting you cars - she loves her grandson

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Taking My Medicine

Dear JJ,

Right now you are in Canada with Gigi and Papa and soon Uncle Peter. It has been over a week since I saw you, but your mom sends me these nice photos of you enjoying your time in Cobourg. You have no idea how much joy it brings to see photos of your joy. But in all of that there is worry.

We had not made our will, but it brings to mind how life can be short and fickle. Nothing to worry about- but the joy that you have brought me is that you live in the moment. Your smile lights my heart, and if I ever want to feel better all I have to do is see that smile and my heart is light. 

You are having a great time - but I am so looking forward to seeing you again. Because your smile is like medicine for my heart - and I need to take my medicine.

Love, 

Dad

Playing in the sand - we all need more mud

Is there a better place for a boy than a beach? 
That smile- I just breathe better seeing it