Walla Walla

A couple of weeks ago we got word that Tadd's dear Grandpa Froese had gone Home to be with the Lord. Another death. We had been planning to leave for his house for a visit just one week after he died. We still went to Walla Walla, but it was to say good bye rather than hello. Tadd and I were quite sad but Ezra said "Mom, we'll see him again in Heaven, remember?" It's really no wonder God wants us to all become as children.
We were able to see many relatives we haven't seen in quite a while in Walla Walla. Grandma's house was filled with beautiful flowers sent from loving friends and family.
And Grandpa's funeral was a real testament to his work for the Lord over the years.
His children wanted to emphasize that we are celebrating his entering into the peace of Heaven. Yes, we are sad to say good bye--but we KNOW it is only for a time. That brings peace.

Below is a poem that Tadd wrote about his Grandpa and read at the funeral.

Grandpa

A soft chuckle, the first hint of what was to come

To those familiar, we knew we were in for some fun

We hoped for occasion, and were glad when one was sent

Another moment to be enjoyed, to the fullest extent

The joy, the mirth – neither could be contained

The response real, nothing he did was feigned

Who enjoyed it most is what we would muse

Grandpa, or those who his amusement viewed?

We knew the progression well and sat back to behold

This dear man we loved so much, about to fold

When the moment hit, twinkling eyes more brightly shone

The classic sign that something, had reached his funny bone

Remaining composure would then betray him

Laughing eyes squeezed tight and thin

A lost cause now, they sprung a leak

Here come the tears, rolling down his cheek

With face red and air in short supply

He’d produce the waterworks and make us cry

Next up, the infamous eye glasses removal

Tears were flowing now, there was no reprisal

From the pocket, a handkerchief produced with a sigh

Its purpose in life – the flood waters to dry

Such was the routine each time, it was like habit

One time remembered well, had to do with a jack rabbit

Visits from Grandparents were always enjoyed and cherished

When from fair land of Walla Walla they could be relinquished

That Idaho winter was bitter cold and the rabbits scarce

Many rounds of 0.22 fire, yielded not many a carcass

As we all hugged and said our goodbyes

A lone jack rabbit in the alley caught our eye

It hopped a bit and then to a halt it came

Turning back to gloat, in our lack of aim

Now this scene to Grandpa, it was quite funny

All those rounds of shells, and now here this bunny

Such rich moments as this were not passed by

Each properly captured, with tears from Grandpa’s eye

His laugh and his life, it seems they aligned

Not loud or obtrusive, but heartfelt and genuine

A quiet, humble man of God was he

A Grandpa to cherish, a man who like to be

Teddy and Caroline picked up right where they left off. Mostly friends--but Caroline still loves to annoy Teddy. I think she thinks he is her brother.
The above was my favorite of the flowers that arrived at Grandma's house. The below are two of my very favorite boys. So different and yet so alike.

Tadd playing Grandpa's guitar.
One afternoon we bundled up all the kids against the frigid air and walked one block over to the park. It felt good to get out into the sunshine and let the kids run and yell.
The whole time we were in Walla Walla Caroline was referred to as one of the "boys". Someone would say "the boys are down in the basement making a mess" and we'd know that they meant Ezra, Teddy and Caroline.
Oh boy do I miss my Ella girl!

Don't know whether these pictures make me happy or sad.

Nora loved getting to spend time at the park with Aunt Heather. And Mommy's arms and back were quite thankful for the break!
My Grandpa with my kids. We stayed at his house the whole time we were in Walla Walla.
He was a gracious and patient host. He is probably still working at putting all his stuff back where it belongs. It all got moved to higher and safer ground so that Miss Rip Up and Shred couldn't destroy it.
Here are a few extra pictures I felt like tossing in. These are for you, Auntie Avy since you felt you got cheated out of kid-pics in the post about the hutch : )
Ezra loves to create with his Lincoln Logs. We got them for him for his first birthday. Back then he chewed on them. Now he can make a pretty mean fort complete with porch, fence and cowboys.

Nora's apron made by Miss Jennie the amazing seamstress. Miss Jennie is mama to one handsome little cowpoke!

Left over pictures from Valentine's day. Plastic lips from Grandma.