The Grandkids (AKA Grand Kids)

Because I have returned to work, my spare time is not like it was when I was trapped. It also means that I can again play with my grandkids and have fun.

Aidan finally got to have a sleepover. Our favorite game is Evil Pawpaw accompanied with Tickle Monster. There are many rules and formalities in playing this game. Aidan must run, scream at the top of his lungs, jump on the bed, and take sanctuary under a blanket on the couch where he becomes "a pile of dirty laundry". My role is to hide and leap out at him when he comes searching, growl, and do the appropriate amount of tickling. Lights being off will ensure the Evil Pawpaw. Lights on bring back the nice Pawpaw.

Dalton and James got to visit recently when they lost power during recent storms. We went out to a great restaurant for a "garbage pail lid" full of ribs, BBQ chicken, corn on the cob, corn bread, cole slaw, baked beans, and other delectible foods. After dinner, we returned to the house and watched a movie before they had to go back home. They are fun to play with and we miss them when they do not visit.

We were invited to Jordyn's 5th grade graduation ceremony. It seems crazy that she will begin Middle School next year. We were very proud of her and the accomplishments she attained in school. She received an academic award for grades and citizenship. Many in the school received these awards and many parents and grandparents were rewarded with the satifaction of seeing their special person recognized.

However, Jordyn's name was called later for another award. The Richard Portee award is presented to a student who has a high achievement despite adversity. It was established by a teacher many years ago and is the only recognition which included a monetary award. There were only 4 different single awards and Jordyn received one of them. We were very proud of this young lady.

Finally, we had the pleasure of sitting with Dalton during the ceremonies. His high grades and citizenship resulted in his selection to be an Usher for the graduation. We were met at the entrance by a handsome young man in a white shirt who gave us our program. Just before the ceremony began, the same little guy bounded into our row of seats to hug his Pawpaw and sit with us.