So, over the summer I went to the WWII museum with my Pawpaw. When I was trying to figure out how to describe my experience of that day, I realized that I was more focused on the quality time with my Pawpaw rather than the museum itself. Don't get me wrong, the museum was awesome! It's massive and filled with what seemed to be an infinite amount of WWII information. My Pawpaw goes all the time and says that he learns something new at each visit.

I am very grateful for both of my grandparents. I love them very much. I was originally going to write about my day at the WWII museum with my Pawpaw, but I instead decided to write down 10 very important life lessons I learned from him.

1. God first. Family Second.

He has always been involved in the church. More importantly, he always demonstrates good character outside of church. He never really told me how to be a good person, he just showed me. Actions always speak louder than words. Additionally, his love for his family is obvious and unending. I value these traits in him.

2. Always seek to learn new things

Whether it is going to the WWII museum, learning how to peel carrots, or learning how to work a Mac, Pawpaw is always eager to learn. When you stop asking questions, you stop growing. Never lose your curiosity.

3. The simple life is the best life

Some of my best memories come from a simple town: Bay St. Louis. That house was filled with sandy kids, no privacy, lots of cards, sleeping bags on the floor, and so much love. A simple life is a wonderful, rewarding life.

4. Create things to keep your mind sharp

I can't remember a time that Pawpaw didn't have a project in the works. It keeps his mind sharp and his creative juices flowing!

5. Always join in on the fun

Cards? Fishing? Water polo? Swimming? Football? Pawpaw's there!

6. It is possible to stay a child-at-heart for life

In a tough and sometimes dark world, pawpaw is a rare light. His kind heart, playful personality, and positive attitude truly soften my heart.

7. There's too much noise in the world

As a teenager, I never understood what he meant by "too much noise". Why can't I listen to my music in the car, Pawpaw? He means that nobody can think clearly in this fast paced life that is constantly bombarding us with noise (TV, radio, news, phones). Sometimes this noise can be numbing to our true thoughts and feelings. Sometimes unplugging can be truly rewarding.

8. Make the best out of whatever life throws at you

Sometimes you may need to work more than one job to make ends meet. Other times a hurricane might take your home away from you. Pick yourself up, make the best out of the situation, and never lose sight of what's most important.

9. NEVER loose your sense of humor

If I had a dollar for each time Pawpaw laughed before the punch line of his own Pawpaw joke, I'd be rich. It's fantastic and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

10. Love unconditionally and wholeheartedly

I am so lucky to have this example of true love in my life. These two have been married for 60 years. I love to watch them dance because Mawman always has stars in her eyes when she looks at him.

I am truly grateful for these life lessons. I will carry them with me throughout my journey in life. I hope some of these will also help you throughout your life journey.