This is a picture of the last trip we went on with Neil and Mary Louise. It's taken outside the San Diego Temple. Lee and I have enjoyed several trips with the two of them. I'd like to share a poem with you that Lee wrote for his Dad this Christmas.
Grandpa, Dad and Me
I was raised on a family farm,
which I can’t complain.
I got to do what others couldn’t
and the memories still remain.
You see I got to work with my Dad and Grandpa,
by their side every day.
I learned the value of hard work
with little time to play.
We milked the cows, fed calves
and watched the livestock grow.
We planted the field, watered the crops
and reaped the harvest we sowed.
I learned from the best.
Their example was there for everyone to see.
We worked hard and we had purpose,
my Grandfather, Dad and me.
I feel blessed to have been raised this way
but, I have only one regret.
My boys will never get to work with Dad,
as times have changed a bit.
The family farm is gone now,
and they have taken jobs in town.
They will never know the joy and fulfillment
that comes from way deep down.
From knowing that you created something
with hardwork and the sweat of your brow,
while riding horses, chopping hay and
milking the old cow.
We praised the Lord for what we have
as we get down on a knee,
to give thanks to God for all he does.
My Grandpa, Dad and Me
Now Grandpa’s gone and Dad is old
and I’m well passed my prime.
I’m starting to look a lot like Dad,
I guess that’s not a crime.
I have a double chin,
my hair is thinning and turning gray.
I need glasses to read
and aids to hear what other people say.
I guess it’s a family characteristic,
it’s the way it’s supposed to be.
We look and talk and think alike
my Grandpa, Dad and me.
I know I had something special
that no one else can claim.
I got to work side by side
with men who were the same,
who taught me how to live,
to serve both God and my fellowmen.
To treat people and animals with respect
and always do the best I can.
Life goes on, yes life is good.
Life is all I hoped it would be.
There was joy and there was love
For Grandpa, Dad and me.
Neil was reunited with his Heavenly Father 12/29/2008
We will miss him so much.
