Grandpa Tuttle ~

I got a call on Wednesday night that my daddy's father passed away. He had Alzheimer's and really went downhill pretty fast. I am thankful that it was quick and he was able to live a long, happy life. He and my grandma had been married 67 years! THAT is something to celebrate! My grandpa was ALWAYS into something ~ he loved a good joke, a prank, painting and his dogs. The stories about him are endless. Probably 10-15 years ago, he wrote a book and my uncle had is published for all of us. In it, he tells all about his childhood, growing up, meeting my grandmother, etc. What a treausre not only for us, but for future generations to come!

Dalton & I did not take the kids with us. We knew it would be a quick trip (overnight) and a 6 hour drive. We also knew that my parents would be there and the kids would not be able to "get" why we could not stay and play with Nana and Pawpaw. I also don't think that they are ready to grasp death. They know he passed away, and he is in heaven, and that's enough. They are content, and I want to leave it at that.

I missed them SO SO SO much! I was gone from them a total of about 36 hours, but it seemed like forever! I am not used to being away from both of them at the same time and I literally longed for someone to hold as crazy as that sounds. It was nice to have quiet time to catch up with Dalton. We even enjoyed a meal out last night ~ alone! That crazy nut makes my life so fulfilled and full of joy! I don't think anyone else in the entire world can make me laugh like he does! He was so cute, when I talked to MD on the phone today, he could hear her little voice and his ENTIRE face lit up ~ he's crazy about that girl! I am so thankful for my sweet family!

I guess I should also mention that I really don't like funerals. I dislike visitation even more. I feel like I never know the right thing to say or that I might say the wrong thing. A couple years ago ~ actually about 7 because I was HUGE pregnant with MD, Dalton's great uncle who he was pretty close with, passed away. It was one the most beatiful funerals I have ever been to. It was a true celebration of his life. His family shared letters he had written them, funny stories, etc. Of course tears were shed, but when I left, I felt so happy ~ knowing how much he loved his family and how much they loved him. I think what puts this funeral *above* all others (sounds crazy, I know!) was at the very end, the piano and organ were as loud as they could be and "When We All Get to Heaven" was played. The sweetest, elderly black lady sang to the top of her lungs and clapped her hands. I LOVED IT. I want that at my funeral (sounds morbid, but hey ~ we are all checking out of here one day!). Everytime I hear that song, I am reminded of that day and also that that is our future as Christians ~

"In the mansions, bright and blessed, He'll prepare for us a place. When we all get to heaven, what a day of REJOICING that will be! When we all see JESUS we will sing and shout the victory!"

When Dalton 1st met my grandpa, my grandpa RAN as fast as could, jumped in Dalton's arms and wrapped his legs around him and kissed him! I bet he did the same when he saw Jesus ( and my Nannie & Popa)!

Rejoicing!!!

Amber