June 20 has been one of my favorite days of the year for going on ten years now. Today our first grandson Caleb turned nine. He has been a constant source of smiling joy in the lives of many since the day he arrived. My father, Jerry Crumal, was most especially thrilled to be GREAT grandpa to this sweet boy.
My dad made an effort to see Caleb and be a part of his life as much as his time and health would allow through the years.
He loved ALL the children in his life, and there have been many. Most children who have grown up in the apartment complex he and Maryann have managed for twenty years called him 'papa'.
He never really got up and DID a lot with them, but children in his presence always felt love.
A child can never have too many people in his life, loving him and thinking he's wonderful.
It kind of makes the adult in the relationship feel wonderful, too. I am so glad that Caleb is old enough now to always remember his Papa Jerry.
Happy Birthday Caleb. I'm sorry this is your first birthday that I have missed. I am at papa's bedside on this, his last Father's Day. With life comes death. The best we can hope for is to be surrounded by people who love us in the end. I am so glad I can be here for and with my dad as he passes, and I know that someday you will be there for me, too.
So sorry to hear about your dad! Darling pictures.
Posted by: Hannah | Cards Magazine | July 08, 2010 at 10:35 AM
Hi, Jen. I'm thinking of you and sending warm wishes.
Posted by: Peggy | June 29, 2010 at 09:41 PM
Jen, So sorry your dad is leaving but what a wonderful gift to be nearby and whisper all those sweet loving thoughts and thanks to him. Sending hugs and prayers.
Posted by: Mary Ann | June 29, 2010 at 01:28 PM
Jen,
Sending hugs and prayers your way. I know how difficult this must be for you and your family and I hope your wonderful memories of your sweet Dad will bring you comfort.
Barbara
Posted by: Barbara | June 28, 2010 at 07:54 AM
Jen, I am sorry to hear your sweet daddy is preparing to leave this world. :( I am sure he feels very blessed to have you by his side as he does. To me, that is one of the best gifts you can give to someone. Sending prayers to you and your family for peace and comfort and strength at this time.
Posted by: Shann | June 28, 2010 at 04:52 AM
Blessings to you and your Dad. June 20th is the day my Dad died of a heart attack many years ago...only wish we could have had some time to say goodbye before he left us. Enjoy these bittersweet days together.
Posted by: Jan Richards | June 23, 2010 at 06:46 PM
So glad you're able to be with your Dad Jen. I'm going to see my Dad later this week, happens very rarely but it's always good when we get together. Thinking of you.
Posted by: Sue McGettigan | June 20, 2010 at 11:19 PM
Very well put, Mom. I love you and am so thankful you are able to be there.
Posted by: Erica | June 20, 2010 at 07:57 PM
Jen...sending warm thoughts to you. I'm glad you are able to be there with your father. See you when you are able to come home.
Posted by: BrendaLou | June 20, 2010 at 05:02 PM
Jen,
I feel so much sorrow for you on this day, I have been missing Daddy all day today To know that you are sitting with your Dad and knowing the end is near. It wasn't so long ago that I was sitting beside mine. The time is too precious to miss yet so painful to bear. Plese give Jerry a kiss and hug from me and tell him I will miss him and his humor. My prayers are with him and you for this incredible journey both of you will begin. He on his way to the Lord and you will begin the long journey of mourning. Keep your faith in whatever you believe and remember you are loved.
I love you
your cousin Teresa
Posted by: Teresa A. Moran | June 20, 2010 at 02:16 PM