Friday, December 29, 2006

As the year comes to an end...

A lot has happened this year, but even more has happened in just these past 2 months alone. I haven't really had time or really felt like really sitting down and typing up something, so here it goes. First off, my Grandad passed on veterans day (very suiting since he was a war veteran). In a previous post I mentioned that he wasn't doing well. He passed in the comfort of his home. I was happy to have been able to spend a little extra time with him the week he passed. It was difficult to see him in so much anguish, but really good to speak to him and hold his hand. Death has always been a hard thing for me to grasp, as I am sure is the case for many people. It is so hard to say good bye, in the physical sense anyway. On one hand, it was a relief to know that he was no longer "living" that way, but on the other hand the people who are still living have to deal with the loss. We will miss Grandad's presence. Childhood memories of him have been popping in my head before and ever since his passing...like all those times he walked my cousins and I up to the nearby liquor store for some candy, the fact that he would always make a point of attending his grandchildren's events (ie. sporting events), and more. They will always be engrained in my memory. I am glad that he was able to meet M-Kid and his other two great grandchildren. I only hope and pray that I am blessed enough to make it to that stage in life. I pray for my family to get through this difficult time and that they are able to remain strong...and eventually be at peace. The holidays went pretty well this year. For Thanksgiving, we went up north to visit the Rodriguez side of the family. We had a really good, relaxing time, and Matthew had lots of fun hanging out with his grandma, cousins, and uncles. For the Christmas holiday, we stayed in So Cal. Matthew got to see a cool light show at Griffith Park, saw Santa at the mall, went to the Children's mass at our church on Christmas eve, and more. We spent time with the Albright and Wilson families on Christmas eve and Christmas, and Matthew had lots of fun hanging out with everyone! He made out well on the gifts. Thanks everyone! Also, Daddy gave him his first "real" haircut (Mommy trimmed his bangs a couple of times before), and it turned out pretty cute! It is pretty even all around with a little tail in the back. He continues to learn and grow so quickly, a little each day. His little personality is just developing so wonderfully! May we continue to be blessed enough to be able to be surrounded by great family and friends, celebrate engagements, weddings (Congratulations to you all!), births (Welcome babies!), birthdays (Happy 50th Birthday dad!), new jobs, etc....and enjoy more good times. That is all for now. Time for bed! Happy New Year everyone. May our beloved family and friends be blessed in the upcoming new year of 2007 (and all other years of course!) Thank you for always being there for us.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hello Rodriguez Family in Southern California. Matthews pictures look great. He looks happy and healthy. I am sorry to hear about your grandfather passing away, Michele. I t so sad to see a generation dwindle. But looking on the bright side, a generation is blossoming and that includes Matthew. I really do hope to meet him again in July 2007...when I visit California.

My love goes to your whole family in all directions.

Bye,

Danny

Anonymous said...

Hi Michelle,

Thanks for your blog. I must say your words expressed what I have been feeling these past few weeks. Life is short with the ones you love. I miss Grandad's presence tremendously but know he's in a better place. This has been one of the most difficult times that I've have ever experienced in my life in dealing with his passing. I love you all for your support. Love, Mom

James said...

Sorry to hear about your grandpa. What a blessing that Matthew got to meet him. He may not remember him when he grows up, but he'll always treasure the pictures.

Hope 2007 turns out to be a great year you, Marc and Matthew! :)

Cousin Jimmy