This morning, at 8am, one of my grand's Graduation ceremony commenced.
It was CJ- my grandson from my youngest son Clayton who passed in 2005. I haven't got to see him since I moved back home... CJ is a very busy and ambitious young man....but I have spoke with him on the phone once.
His Mom and Grandma completely forgot I was back in the states until last week and then they mailed me a graduation announcement and told me that they had a ticket for me if I could make it to the ceremony. I would have been there with bells on for him, but my job requires 2 weeks notice for non- emergency days off.
I was heartbroken. I still am- but hopefully we can get together in a couple weeks or so and have a big ol catchup!! Or a few smaller ones- I'm good with whatever time he can give me!! I'll take it!!
But I am the most proud Granny ever of him. He's already signed on as a full fledge fireman with his local fire department last week. He started a couple of years ago as a cadet with the fire department. Spent every spare moment he had up there. He also had a job at McD's at the time (He's given that one up now tho). He has his entire family's work ethic... My son was a hard worker and very ambitious. So is Kathy, CJ's Mom...And his Granny on his Mom's side, And his step-dad, Thomas, and his whole family too! I am so happy that Kathy picked such a good man to step in for Clay to raise CJ and be her husband!!!...and I honestly believe Thomas and Clay would have been close friends had they met when Clay was alive.
Our side of the family are and were people with good work ethics too... My Dad for one- and Clayton adored his Grandad... Clay's dad and grandfather were also hard workers as are all his Aunts and Uncles on our side.... and I am borderline workaholic - BUT I know when it's time to take some important downtime as well.
I had a bit of a breakdown today when I was on patrol and glanced at the clock and realised that the ceremony had begun. I've missed out of so much of my grandkids growing up when I moved to England.
It will forever be the biggest regret of my life.
But Congratulations, CJ- on becoming a wonderful man and an example for our whole family!!!
I love you and I know your daddy is looking down from Heaven just beaming with Pride.
2 comments:
You know, this is probably one of those situations where I'd have been conveniently sick.
Wish I had thought of that and might have worked if I hadn't just yesterday told my boss I was so proud of CJ ... plus I was sick last week and just now getting over whatever it was. It's okay- I spoke with him a few minutes ago and he wants us to get together soon now that he's got only one job and no school to contend with.... we might even go on a fishing trip together instead of to a stuffy old restaurant. LOL.. sounds like loads more fun too!!!
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