Grandpa Harold says his two bits

My Grandpa Harold was a quiet man. In fact if Grandpa had have been mute he would not have minded. It is my personal conviction that that was one reason he married Grandma Effie, he knew he would never HAVE to speak again. This memory is so vivid that I remember where I was, who was with me, and almost what we were talking about in spite of my young age. The reason for the strong memory is the shock that it produced in all in attendance, including my grandmother. Grandpa Harold was not a social man. In spite of his distaste for public appearance he went to church every Sunday, I always admired him for that. I know the Lord will reward his dutiful sacrifice. The moment Grandpa said his "Amen" to the closing prayer he would bee line it to the car. Where he quietly waited and waited and waited for Grandma to arrive. Grandma was very much the opposite of grandpa in this realm. I know this of Grandpa because I had opportunities to wait with him. He NEVER complained, he respected and understood Grandma. He was happy to give her much needed time to interact with friends and associates. It was these times, waiting in the car with my beloved Grandpa Harold that hold some of my choicest memories.

With Grandma gone, Grandpa and I talked. He would tell me things I never knew and ask me questions. I was always surprised by the deep conversations we would have, he being such a quiet man and all.

Every Sunday afternoon we would have Sunday dinner with Grandma and Grandpa Felix. We served this particular Sunday Dinner in the "Formal Dinning Room." Dad sat at the head of the table nearest the window, mom at the foot nearest the rock hallway. Nick and I sat on the side nearest the kitchen sink, while Grandpa and Grandma sat opposite of us.

Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa were talking business, as all our Sunday Diners went. Grandpa mentioned a story and as was customary Grandma proceeded to tell the story (I think this is just how they interacted). Grandpa being annoyed, which was not customary, said, "Effie this is my story, I'm telling it."

Every jaw in the room hit the table, every fork suspended in air, and I think Grandpa was a bit stunned by his own response. Not missing too many beats he continued his story. We all listen intently and the true miracle, Grandma did not interrupt once!