The man on the left is my Grandpa Charlie! He’s my Step-Grandfather, but the only Grandfather I remember. He always makes me smile and I’m sad that I haven’t seen him much since my Grandmother passed away 10 years ago. My Dad sees him several times a year and I think it’s great that they still have a relationship after all these years.
I often think about the toast Grandpa Charlie gave at our Rehearsal Dinner. Something about me knowing what I want and what I don’t want and how I’ve always given such great hugs. It was very sweet! So, I emailed him (along with the picture above) to see if he happened to have a copy of that toast and this was his response:
Lambeth, I didn’t save the toast. I can’t remember if it was a spontaneous toast or a previously written one. Glad that I said something nice because you have always been such a jewel and wonderful person. It is easy to say nice things about people that are so nice.
Very best wishes to you and Jamil. I always love to hear from you and especially with a nice picture.
Lots of love,
Florence and Charlie
Again, he made me smile! A Grandfather’s love is so special… I’m greatful for this email and for him always caring for me as if I was of his own flesh & blood.
Oh, and to this day, one of the best Christmas presents I ever got was a roll of 100 stamps from him! Took me years to use them up and everytime I mailed a bill or a letter to a friend, I thought of him!
PS. Florence is his new wife and just sweet as pie!
PPS. That’s my proud papa in the back of the picture along with the great Minister I found on the internet (big sunglasses, tennis shoes and all)!
PPPS. I wish I’d had the opportunity to know my other Grandfathers, the men behind my Mom & Dad, but that’s not the card that was dealt. It’s nice though to see pictures, hear stories, and imagine the kinds of conversations I would have with them!
