Family History

I had a reason for not writing anything yesterday. My eyes were filled up with water most of the day. Don't know why. And again today. I think it is PMS (Poppa Memory Syndrome) or something. So, this is off the subject of Grandpa Rue Ware, and on to Grandpa Guy Ware.

Last night when President Sharp announced that we would be re-dedicating the Stake Center and that President McKay was the one who dedicated the original building, it reminded me of a picture that Wayne Ware sent me a year ago. I came home and found it on my computer, printed it off and took it to President Sharp today. Here is is for everyone to see.

Aunt Ione responded that she is the younger lady in the picture, which Ruanne correctly guessed! Congratulations, Ruanne. You know your family history. As for me, I knew Grandpa Ware is on the left, President McKay is facing away from the camera, and Grandma Ware (Linda) is on the far right. Aunt Ione also said the other lady is Sister McKay, which should have been a natural for us all because she always accompanied him. I will share more photos as I get them.

I put this pic on facebook and got a response from Kathy Hannert, who grew up in the little house just behind my house. She was good friends with Leslie Ware. She said the Grandpa gave her her name and blessing and she always considered him to be such a gentle man. So nice of her to leave that comment.

Nikki Rondinelli said she would be sharing more photos she has of the family history from her dad, Uncle Keith, and Stuart. I will put anything I get up on here. I love family history!

Happy 80th Birthday Grandpa!

We've all been thinking about you today. Some days it doesn't feel like your gone, just that it has been a while since we've spoken. Others it feels strange. Others it feels sad.

Today I feel all three, in turns. I've been thinking a lot about how the term "old" is so relative. You've always been old to me. I don't know if it is possible for a Grandpa not to seem old to his grandchildren. But now that I think about it, you were only 51 years old when Todd, Nicky, and I were born. You were 47 when you became a grandpa. I don't think my dad, Kent, Garth, or Larry are old. But they are all older than you were when I was born (actually, my dad is 51 now, but still).

Interestingly, I don't really think of you as old. The image I hold of you in my mind is of a physically capable, busy man. Out in the yard working. That is who you were for so many years. It is who you are. I'm surprised, and happy, that image of you returned to my mind so quickly and easily. It is a much more accurate version of you.

We all miss you much.

Love you and happy birthday, Grandpa!

P.S. I know I need to start working on your pictures and audio and stuff. I will. I promise!