This poem, written by my daughter Kim,
has previously been viewed on my
Mothers Day page. It is written, however,
for both her grandparents, Grady and Ruth.
Therefore, I am placing it on my
Fathers Day page also. I think it is a
wonderful tribute to both my parents-in-law.
It was first written and placed on our site
at MyFamily.com and has brought back
many memories and images to our minds.
I saw it all... these many memories you recall.
What a life it was!
As I remember all the laughter and all the talk,
the chatter and children running past.
But I never failed to stand tall.
I had my duties, for which I was made to do.
Complying was easy, I had been built strong.
But I always kept watch over that younger crew.
With each year that passed and all the children grew.
Each found a love and married,
meaning more children to pursue.
Grady and Ruth had grand children now,
a new generation to teach.
Maybe, one would grow
and want to help with the farm.
Who knew what the future would bring.
Or, the wonders that God would allow.
So, Grady had his work "cut out",
the grand children to spoil and teach.
And with eyes wide open,
sparkling with delight,
the children listened to every word
(mostly waiting for a treat).
A ride on the tractor
or just a walk down the road.
Listening to Grady tell his tales,
it was a treat you know.
But those kids were in heaven,
whenever Grady mentioned "the store".
Holidays were the best times for me,
because everyone was there.
I can see Grady now, sitting at the table.
Laughing and chatting
but never leaving his chair.
It was Ruth on the go.
Trotting from the kitchen to the table.
You never let her rest.
She's the one who taught
the children how to fish.
To be patient and
just how that line should throw.
And, what "fish fries" you had!
Barbeques too! And yes,
I was there
enjoying as much as you.
I've seen it all...
like the "fly on the wall".
And, wow, the stories I could tell.
I've seen laughter turn to tears.
But after so many years,
Is anything always happy and well?
Some are guessing and
some may already know.
Just who I am...and I'll forever flow.
For those who may be wondering,
I know the gentle touch of Ruth's hands.
I've cooled you to quench a thirst
and found pleasure joining you in a meal.
I'm a simple small thing
yet I've always been there for you.
I just want to be remembered
or leave you with a smile or two,
just as most people do.
I am the blue tea pitcher,
always around and
with a fantastic view.
No person or family is cherished,
as much as I will forever cherish you.
Written as "Anon" January 14, 2000
This page, as the Mothers Day page, is
dedicated to both Grandaddy and
Grandmother, referred to as Grady and Ruth
in the poem. They both passed away
years ago, but live on in our hearts.
Grady was always helping, being a
farmer and Father to 8 children, he had
time and help for all. He was the
one at the door with a huge cotton
basket filled with peas or butterbeans,
corn when it was ripe and ready, which
was always around the 4th of July,
and we spent many of our holidays
shucking, cleaning, cutting and freezing
corn. It was a blessing to us young couples
and saved many dollars at the grocery.
He was a peanut farmer, but had huge
fields of corn, some sweet (good for the table)
and a lot for grinding into feed for the cows.
He also planted fields of peas and corn,
several varieties, for the family and to sell.
In our part of the country, people will
gladly come and pick their own to get
fresh vegetables. He was a kind,
wonderful man, not educated
but with more everyday intelligence
than many holding doctorates will ever possess.
You will see on my other pages just
how highly his grandchildren think of him.
Please don't miss some wonderful tributes
by two of his grandsons "next".
Music is "Through the Years"
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