Generations

Tonight, Carson attended his first funeral visitation.  It was for his 98 year-old great-great-great uncle Delbert.  I was amazed by his reaction and level of understanding of the situation.  I think Carson stood at the casket longer than anyone else, trying to soak in the idea that he wasn't going to wake up because he lives with Jesus now.  (He was also deeply concerned about all of the people talking in church... Even after we told it was okay to use a normal voice, he refused.  If he was only that concerned about being quiet on Sundays!) 

I was born with all four of my great grandmas and two great grandpas alive.  As a young child, my great grandma Garbers was my best friend.  I would spend the night at her house regularly.  Some of my fondest memories of being at her house include rollerblading in her basement, taking care of her chia(spelling?) pet (the plant), playing with her clap-on/clap-off lights, her cinnamon rolls rising under her electric blanket, and her love for the Hawkeyes.  Even as an adult, I miss her terribly and speak and think of her often.

Carson also has many great grandparents and one great-great grandma still alive.  I feel that he is so fortunate to be surrounded by so many generations of family.  His adoration for his great-grandpa Garbers (Papa) is something I wish I could bottle up.  The two of them are two peas in a pod and I don't think either of them would have it any other way.  Carson and his Papa have no problem reminding me or anyone else that he is "Papa's boy!!"  When something breaks or a toy's batteries die, the first thing out of Carson's mouth is "Papa will fix it."  If he only knew what wonderful "fixers" his G'ma and Papa really are.  Although it's not necessarily apparent now, I am anxious to see how much Carson has learned and will continue to learn about life by simply being in their company.  How fortunate we are to have them in our lives. 

This is the third time I've written my first "real" post.  I haven't really figured out where I'm going with this blog, other than filling it with things I hope Carson will be interested in knowing more about when he's older.  I felt drawn to write this as it is such an important piece of our lives individually and together.  We have what some would call and non-traditional family, but I can't imagine having it any other way at this point.  The closeness and love we all feel is irreplaceable and will remain with us forever. 

God bless you and your family.