2.18.2010

Growing Old

He looked old tonight. Sad even. Maybe a better word is reminiscent. His face was drawn together in concentration as my beautiful cousin-in-law played her french horn during her final recital at BYU. He held my hand during some of it. I watched as he tapped his pointer finger on the armrest of his chair to the beat of the music playing-just like he used to do when I was little when we would listen to classical music. Those were some of my favorite days when I could sit on his lap and play Pipe Dream on his computer or Chess while he taught me the classics of Mozart, Chopin, Tchaikovsky, and Beethoven. During the entire concert I could see how his face conveyed his desire to be back in the band room directing an entire class of eager students to learn their instruments in hand. I could picture his arms directing an orchestra concert and helping his students become better. I wish I could help him relive those days. I wish that he didn't have to get so old. Because today, I finally realized how old he has gotten. How every moment I get to spend with him, how every hug and kiss should be treasured and cherished. It's his birthday at the beginning of March. Another year older and much wiser too.

I love you Grandpa.

3 comments:

DaMel said...

yeah good old days.. i remember the days i used to go to the farm with Grandpa and i would always get pepsi with him and used to talk to him on tty... now its not like that anymore... but still good and always give him hugs when i still can see him... since part of my namesake is from him....

Tacie Hoffman said...

I think you really captured Grandpa on that one. Amazing descriptive words! :) I love you cuz!

Michelle said...

Mmmmmmm I just threw up in my mouth. Yea, I remember those band days. He did more to students then teach band. Judgement day is close at hand for him, maybe that's why he looks so sad to you.
"Amazing descriptive words"....I have a few I could share.