In Honor of Grandpa Robinson

I've pondered this post for a while now as it is often times hard for me to reach out when sadness fills my days. For our family life as we know it has forever changed. After holding this in for some time I find I am in need of page spilling if you will; you see my Grandfather (on My Love's side) passed away suddenly.

While we have all found deep comfort in the knowledge he did not suffer , we also find ourselves stunned and full of disbelief as we were prepared for the illness he was battling. An illness that although not curable was treatable - planting a seed of hope within us that we would have a bit more time. Not too mention he was so looking forward to the 80th birthday party we would be holding for my Grandmother, his wife of 62 years. A party in which he so lovingly planned down to the last detail, it was incredibly hard to have that celebration replaced by his memorial service.

Time heals wounds, I know this,  however it does not fill gaps quickly. It is hard for me to look at his empty chair, I miss the welcome grin he had for all who visited as well as the twinkle in his eye that is a Robinson trait. It is difficult to watch my Little Man well up when talking about his Great Grandfather, perhaps even harder is the knowledge that each birthday to come will be a celebration of not only Grandma's life but of the one that passed on that very same day. I was blessed for 17 years, blessed to have a Grandfather who motivated us all to be the best we can be, loved us completely and showered everyone he knew with goodness.

Comments

[sherry]

Kristen
So heartfelt and so raw with emotion You touched my heart as I have just lost both my parents in February and March. The gaps seem to becoming larger not smaller as I miss them more and more each day that passes.
Thank you for a beautifully written post

[susanc]

My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. I know of the shock and disbelief you speak of when losing someone suddenly. We were glad he did not suffer, but that does not lessen the grief.

Thank you for sharing such a beautiful post that I know was very difficult to write. xxx

[Lexi Grenzer]

It is so difficult to learn to live a new life when we loose someone near and dear to us. We come to rely on those warm smiles, wisdom shared and special traits...and it hurts to know that these amazing people will no longer be present in our day to day lives. And although I know Grandpa Robinson's memory will lovingly live on, and that the special sparkle you speak of will show up in your Hubbies and Son's eyes, I know the loss will be great. May your many memories of Grandpa Robinson bring you all comfort during these difficult times my friend. Thank you for sharing yourself with us. Lots of love Kristen, Lexi.

[SuZeQ]

I'm sorry. It's always difficult losing those we love most in life. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers until you reach a more quiet place.

[Sue chesley]

Oh dear sweet Kristen, my deepest sympathies, prayers and thoughts for this utterly profound loss. It is such a strong heart pain when a loved one is taken so suddenly. Keep your heart focused on the love he shared with you, and that he gave of himself enough to help you through this very difficult time. You are such a tender heart, my heart goes out to you. *hugs* and prayers, Sue

[Shel]

My heart goes out to you and your family in this tough time. Although time does heal, it doesn't always do it quickly or painlessly and sorrow is a deep pain. I think it's beautiful how you were able to share your story with us, a process which I believe helps the healing and the hurt. I'm sending out some love and sympathy vibes your way!

[Valeriekresge]

Hi, Kristen, my condolences to you and Travis, his mom, and the others.

I've been watching some of your videos on the Internet and have been wanting to make (personal) contact with you and the family.

Please give my love to your mom and dad.

You can find me on fb, but I've not been able to find a personal fb page for you. Perhaps I will through the link above.

Much love to you and all.
Valerie and Rhiannon

[susan lew]

So sorry for your loss.

[Cindy]

Kristen, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Will keep your family in my prayers and sending you hugs.

[Stacie]

I lost my grandfather in a similar way...he had an illness, but something else took him so fast, so unexpectedly, that we were left breathless from the loss. A few months before he passed, I stayed with my grandparents for a week. I think he knew his time was short. I don't know how I know that, other then in the feeling of 'this is the last time we will..' do whatever it was he wanted to do. Go the to flying field, go on an afternoon drive; he was driven to spend as much time as he could with me, doing and showing me things he loved. I helped him plan my grandmother's 80th birthday, even though it was just the three of us. He was obsessed about making sure the cake was just so, her card was just right..and that she would be surprised. It has been 14 years now since he passed. I miss him. I occasionally get whiffs of some benign smell that instantly puts me in front of him, at his kitchen table, during one of our many talks. You expressed the feelings of transitioning beautifully...time does heal, but the gaps...those are so hard. My condolences to you and your family.