Today is kind of a sad day. Today marks three years since Grandpa Rip went home to be with the Lord. It's hard to believe so much time has passed. Over the years it has gotten a little bit easier, but I still miss him terribly. I think we all do. Instead of dwelling on the sadness, though, I want to show you how we remember him....
Amberlin has quite a few stuffed animals, but a few of them are extra special. You see, they stand in for her great-grandfathers. There's Jerry the Giraffe and Carl the Koala and this...
This, my friends, is Rip the Rottweiler. Look at those big brown eyes and that serious face. Rip watches over Amberlin during the day. Although he's tough and a little rugged, he has a soft heart and he loves the Lord. He is very kind and quiet, but can get protective when he needs to be.
Rip loves chewing on sunflower seeds and cantelope and his favorite activities are chasing down golf balls and playing in the grass. He always keeps his bandana with him, no matter where he goes! He loves helping people, although he does so quietly and never draws attention to himself. He is much more comfortable in the background, although his presence makes a big difference to everyone around him. Everyone feels safe and taken care of when he is around.
You may be thinking that this sounds ridiculous. If it seems silly to you... well... then you didn't know my Grandpa Rip. Having Rip the Rottweiler around makes us feel like we have a little bit of Grandpa Rip here with us. Plus, we know that Amberlin will know who her great-grandpa's are, whether she had the chance to meet them or not! One of these days we'll introduce you to the others. :)
We miss you, Grandpa!! Congratulations on the third anniversary of your Homecoming. :) Sending our love...
