The memories are many, but the earliest ones I remember are my Papa and Grandma always involved in the education system. Whether it was Papa being my bus driver or Grandma’s slide-by hugs in the hallway, I can’t think of a time they weren’t there! My Grandpa’s name didn't stay “Grandpa” very long. He was MY grandpa…everyone else called him the same, so I had to change his name. He became " MY PAPA” so he could be everyone else’s grandpa. Most of my schoolmates knew how to get on my nerves if my Papa was around….because they would use MY name for him. The real reason I had to start calling him Papa is so he would respond to me in the school setting…since he was everyone’s “grandpa!”
I have a lot of memories with my grandparents. My family lived next door to them my whole life and I have spent a good amount of time with them. Many times when my brother and I would get mad at mom and dad, we would go across the creek and head to Papa and Grandma’s house. I can’t imagine my life any differently. The impact they have made on my life has been HUGE. The support and love they show at all times is amazing. Many of the hobbies I have were formed at their house. For instance, my love for sewing, word puzzles, the wood shop, gardening, and more recently, my love for missions. My love for missions has grown largely due to them being traveling missionaries! My Grandparents have such huge hearts and the love that they have shared with me over the years has impacted me and set an example of how to love others. My love reflects through the work I do, or just doing simple things around the house or shop.
The News Before Senior Year
Some of the most surprising news I have ever received from my grandparents was that they were packing up what could fit in their camper to go on the road and do missions work. Not only did this mean they were going on the road, it meant I had to say a temporary goodbye. At first, it was very difficult for me to understand and grasp this because it that meant I wouldn't have them at my beck and call anymore. Also, I wouldn’t have my sewing buddy, my workshop buddy, but most of all, I wouldn't have that second house when I needed some entertainment or second supper when I didn't like what was cooked at my house. It was my senior year when they decided to follow God’s call to be missionaries within the United States.
Homecoming
So, January of my senior year I was nominated to be on the homecoming court. The only thing on my mind what that I wish that my grandparents would be able to come see me on the court. The day of homecoming, my Aunt Mar Mar brought me lunch to school because she was in town to watch Homecoming. Little did I know my Grandparents were up to something. Watch this video and see what happens. <3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es2THAqiHSE
In addition to my grandparents coming to watch me on the Court, I was crowned Winter Homecoming 2014 Queen. I was honored to be able to share this moment with them. It still brings tears to my eyes thinking about the sacrifice they made to drive 14 hours to spend this special moment with me.
I AM BLESSED
All of this to say, some people are not blessed with such AMAZING grandparents. I love you so much, Papa and Grandma. I hope that I am just like you when I get older. I hope that I am able to impact so many lives and just share the Gospel through mission work as you are doing now! The inspiration I get from the amazing friendships you have made throughout RVICS (Roving Volunteers In Christ’s Service) is amazing. I always look forward to your arrival back home, but the “see you later” never gets easier!
Love you beyond words,
Trinnilou
