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The Eclectic Pen - Grandpa


By: Xanthe B. (bouncy-tigger)  
Date Submitted: 1/23/2007
Last Updated: 1/28/2007
Genre: Biographies & Memoirs » Family & Childhood
Words: 230
Rating:


  I still remember you, almost thirty years ago. The smell of Ben Gay fills my nostrils with its sharp scent, but I don't mind. I am the only grandchild, the apple of your eye. Sitting on your lap with my head against your chest. Your eyes the color of liquid sapphires....

Not understanding. Understanding the love, not understanding the hurt.

Why you took to your bed and couldn't play.

I was so young.

Christmas time. Being the only child there at Grandma's house, with the biggest pile of presents....and something from you.

Against doctor's orders, body riddled with pain. You got out of bed and drove yourself to the store to buy me a present. Bought the first thing you saw. A present for me. You didn't shop for anyone else. Drove home, collasped into bed, body spent. Cancer taking over.

Christmas Eve. Two dolls, eyes shining, new in the package. I thought I was too old. But I thanked you profusely with a hug that
must
have
cracked
your
ribs.

How I wish I had those dolls now.

I wish I could hold your hand, skin as soft as a baby's. Wrinkled but not old. Smell the Ben Gay and that funny cologne. I can't use Ben Gay...it reminds me too much of you.

I miss you Grandpa.

Your loving grand daughter,
Sunshine


The Eclectic Pen » All Stories by Xanthe B. (bouncy-tigger)

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Comments 1 to 6 of 6
Veronica N. (VeronicaNagy) - 1/23/2007 2:31 PM ET
What a wonderful story and what wonderful memories, you will never forget. I really enjoyed reading it. Thank you for sharing.
IONE L. (zaneygraylady) - 1/23/2007 4:02 PM ET
what a great grandpa
Jennifer D. (i--luv--ChRiSt) - 1/23/2007 4:44 PM ET
Im crying.....................
Xanthe B. (bouncy-tigger) - 1/23/2007 9:47 PM ET
It's all true, he did that for me. I don't knwo why I've been thinking about him so much lately... Thank you for your comments. :)
Paula H. (angelwolf) - 1/30/2007 4:21 PM ET
Thank you for sharing that.
Patricia H. (freebird1960) - , - 3/19/2009 7:24 AM ET
this is a very moving poem
Comments 1 to 6 of 6