This article is in honor of my Papa (Grandpa) who passed away last summer. I don't mean for this to be dreadfully sad, but instead for it to be just an article to enjoy/appreciate moments spent with Papa.
I generally picture Papa in one of three places: sportsing (that's playing sports for you lay folk), working in the background on his ancient boxy computer or totally zonked out in front of the TV. I didn't talk to him a lot or even spend time with him directly but it was comforting just having him around. I grew accustomed to his really scratchy beard kisses welcoming us after an exhausting 14 hour trip with the six of us packed into the minivan.
Papa was always super athletic; if he wasn't bowling he was playing golf or tennis! Actually, he was a Senior Olympian in golf (In Indianapolis that is)! I remember going golfing with Papa and my Dad and I was no good compared to either of them. At least I got a pop from the clubhouse out of the deal, though.
As far as the big computer, it was where Papa would apparently do his tax work; with much dedication as I was told later.
I used to play hardcore games like Asteroid, Pipe Dream. Mine-sweep, and Chip's Challenge.
It was cool to be back there because all of Papa's awards for sports were hung up on the wall, along with a caricature of Papa and art created by grandchildren and certificates for being in the Knights of Columbus for many, many years.
And lastly, Papa was also sleeping in front of the TV.
We watched game shows like Wheel of Fortune and golf (boring) and NFL and Disney Channel if we got to the TV first
All of these memories I collected over the great Christmas and summer vacations we spent with Grandma and Papa; we were able to fit in much longer vacations due to my family's flexible homeschooling schedule, which was lucky because it is not easy to fit in when the distance is so great.
Though there will be many more Indianapolis trips in the future, Papa will not be there; I miss Papa. But I'm thankful for all the memories with him that I will always recall happily.
