I have one of those moments my mother likes to bring up in front of the extended family. I once mispronounced the word Bureau - I said Boo-roo. Mum likes to bring it up - I cant help it, but it infuriates me! I get all defensive. It doesnt help that I was 20 at the time. People are only supposed to see the foibles I want to show them.Desmond Ray George passed away last week. He was my maternal Grandfather. I loved him. Mum said I was his favourite. I was everybody's favourite - der! And on a side note, I know I was the only one of his grandchildren to visit him in his last years, even if it was about once a year :) And if one of the other 7 want to correct me, good. I hope I'm wrong.
I saw him about a month ago. He was doing really well that day - he had all his faculties. His sister Barbara and my favourite Uncle Dallas were there that day too. It was nice. we had subway for lunch. Chatted. Left before the horseracing started.
Pa was born in Hobart in 1932 - lived in Melbourne and then Brisbane. He was known for this sense of humour, his work ethic and his love of gambling, horses and lotto. I loved Pa. He never said I love you - but he would say "you too" when you said it. I wish I called him more often - he never talked long on the phone, so you wouldnt be trapped for long. I miss him already. You kinda never really think someone will die - you know they will, but not yet.
I spoke with him about graduating. He always wanted me to graduate. I remember telling him I might not do Law, after I was accepted. He started to cry. So I told him recently that he wasnt allowed to go yet, he had to wait until December.. or after Christmas. I'm glad he was able to come to my graduation for my Arts degree in 2008 - he was so proud. I remember at the end when we were walking down the aisle, he was near the front with Mum and he was so proud - he was looking at me directly and clapping his hands in the air above everyones heads so I could see him.
His pride brings a tear to my eye - it was my chance to make him happy. He was very traditional... of another time. I, however, am living in sin with bastard children. He didnt like this. Especially when Allan was the stay at home dad and I worked/studied. So I was proud in return to remind him on our last visit that the roles have changed, and Allan has been working for a year now. :)
I love you Pa. I hope you saw my impromptu ugoogolie at your funeral. I had to say something. I don't really even remember what I said - but everyone said I did really well. I think there is video evidence somewhere. :)
Now Pa - here is your celestial challenge: Nanna managed to visit me in my dreams... and I know how you loved your lotto - so I'm just putting this out there, but if you can orchestrate my fortunes in anyway, please help me win lotto. I will buy a ticket once a week from now on. Your birthday will be one of my lucky numbers :)
