It will be 3 years this month since my Finnish Grandfather passed away. I’ve thought about him a lot since I got here… maybe because this place has many similarities to Finland made me realize just how much I’ve miss being there. But that wonderful man I call Pappa, Mhmmm…yes Pappa, has been on my mind. He loved walking in the woods and knew the name of almost every plant you pointed out to him. He was funny, wicked smart, and made you feel at ease with a smile. His eyes were wise and happy with a touch of sneaky. I miss those eyes, how he drank his coffee, and how smashing he looked in suspenders and his trusty beret.
I was thinking about the party we had in Finland after I had graduated from highschool. Good grief that was back in ’06! (Yes, that was an, “I’m feeling old moment”) My aunt and uncle and cousins came over to my grandparent’s house for coffee and cakes and all that Finnish deliciousness I am soooo craving right now (Germany can’t help me in that!). That day Pappa gave a speech- he was really good at those – and then he prayed for me. It’s been so long I can’t remember his exact words anymore, but I remember his face and his conviction as he prayed for me and for my future. That prayer worked and is still working. From going to JWU, to traveling around America to do culinary competitions, to coming here now to Germany: I haven’t gotten anywhere by accident or by my own brilliant self =D. I can’t wait to tell Pappa about these adventures when I see him again… that is if he isn’t already watching them now with Mummo on HDTV (AKA: Heavenly Definition TV J).
Being in Germany is such a gift and blessing, and memories of my grandfather are reminders of how blessed I am to be hereSuukkoja ja Halauksia Pappa!
That was beautiful!! Brought tears to my eyes! To think how real prayers are!! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteyour candid writing and honest sharing is so engaging and touching.
ReplyDeleteThanks you so much for sharing your experiences and feelings. YOU are amazing!