This is my grandfather, Papaw Don. And among many stunning photos of him, this is my favorite. Papaw passed into another place a few days ago and I wanted to share a few words here for family and friends who know me well. This man was a rock and a patriarch like none I’ve had in my life. If there was a constant force amidst a steady diet of the change, it was him. An avid laugher, smiler, limerick reciter and writer, reader, gymnast, sailor… and so much more. A father. A husband. A grandpa. A great grandpa. A centered and loving man. A studious and informed investor. An extremely hospitable host. A wise dude. A cribbage genius. I grew up shooting pool in mamaw and papaw’s basement, getting rides on motorcycles or tractors, playing lawn darts, cops and robbers, cowboys and Indians.. music. Card games. Shooting little toy figurines with disc guns. Visiting Gravel Lake - my great grandmother’s house - where this photo was taken. If there was a car that needed fixing, Papaw was on it. If there was an addition, a porch, a deck, any home construction, mamaw and papaw would show up like a team of home improvement experts. Papaw, can you unlock the pole barn? Papaw, can you get the swings and the basketball out of the garage? Papaw will you recite some poetry?? I was able to spend time with him a few months ago and soak up this magical place one last time with him. Just recently, he got to celebrate his 94th birthday with his two sons. Here’s to Papaw. His spirit is floating around, I can feel it..and I’ve been spending each moment these last few days honoring him in a quiet way. ✨ https://www.instagram.com/p/CU3PQo2ANkw/?utm_medium=tumblr
