Mama Says

You can probably tell by my chubby chipmunk cheeks and tummy that I am pregnant with Sam in this picture. Keek just turned 2 when this was taken. This is about the time that Grandpa started his chemo and as you can see, is sporting a new hairstyle.

The day that this picture was taken, Grandma and Grandpa got home from serving a temple mission in Nauvoo. Up until that time Grandma and Grandpa let Chad, Keek and I live in their condo rent free. It was so nice to live 6 months without paying rent!! (They did serve longer than that of course, my cousin and his wife lived there before we did). I remember that they came over to my Mom's house to say hi before they even went home. It was so good to have them home, even though we were out of a home! Keaton is about 8 months old here.

So, I took this one out of my scrapbook, because this is one of my favorites. Most of you know that Grandpa was ordained a sealer for the LDS church when I was in high school. Grandpa and Grandma were on currently serving their second temple mission in Washington D.C., but they got special permission to fly home to marry Chad and I in the Bountiful Temple. I don't need to tell you how much having him perfom the ceremony meant to both of us- I couldn't put it into words. But, I am so grateful that he was able and more than willing. I will never forget that day!!

I'm sorry about the qualilty of the next couple ones, but they were older, so I had to scan them in. This one was taken when I was in high school, during my tanning days as you can tell. You are probably asking why Grandpa is holding his eye. Well, it isn't because he is hiding his fake eye. (Yes, Grandpa's right eye is actually a glass eye. He lost it from an injury that he got serving in the Korean War, but you really couldn't tell if you met him. Chad actually just was aware of this a few months ago. Boy, was he surprised!!) My mom is taking the picture and at the time was having problems taking good ones. She kept cutting heads off. So, I guess she started holding the other eye shut, while looking through the camera and it seemed to work for her. Weird, I know! Well, Grandpa was making fun of how silly she looked and held his eye shut too! The funniest part, is that Grandpa is holding down his good eye, and opening his fake eye!
Grandma and Grandpa were always very supportive of all of their grandchildren. They came to many of my dance recitals and performances. Here is one I found of my high school graduation. We were limited on tickets, but I was so proud to have them there with my parents to see me get my diploma. Go Braves!!

I hope you all enjoyed this trip down memory lane of me and my Grandpa Hess. You can see what a great man he was. I know that he does live on the other side of the veil and is finally free of his pain and suffering. I know I will see him again. I love you Grandpa!