An auspicious day. Today is the birthday of someone who has made a big difference in my life. I met Sam 39 years ago. He was a young man then (and I was a kid). We made great things together. And, I’m honored to have him as a friend.
But, it’s another special event, too. It’s the 4th birthday of my grandson, Eli. A wonderful, smart, creative child. And, thankfully, curiosity only kills cats- so he is safe.
Unfortunately, Eli lives a few hours away. So, I don’t get to see him all the time (or my daughter and her husband, either). And, each time we spend time together, it’s just fantastic. Like yesterday, when we had a few hours to celebrate his special day. (I am looking forward to next week, when he- and his mom and dad- will be sharing the Seder meals with me.)
I recall my grandfather, Sol, with great affection. I’ve written about him before. He was larger than life- as this picture with Black Jack Pershing and Teddy Roosevelt will hint. But, for me, personally, he kept me on my toes. Drilling me (lightning rounds, only) in addition when I was 3, multiplication at 5, division at 6…He had a wonderful car (one I wanted as my first car, but he died and grandmother did not drive at all, so it was sold a few weeks too early- a 1948 Nash Rambler) and took me everywhere- Coney Island (when Coney Island was cool), Rockaway Beach (ride those waves), libraries, and more.
That’s the way I want my grandson to remember me…With smiles and love and admiration.
Happy birthday, Sam. You have a special place in my heart.
Happy birthday, Eli. You know you have my heart.
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I love seeing little glimpses into your personal life. I know, I’m nosy. Happy birthday to your grandson, Eli & to the other special people in your life.
Thanks for your sentiments, Shawn. I’ll pass them along to Sam and Eli!
Hearts of the fathers turned to the children; http://t.co/EV0CCcknUr
Roy, This is a great example of the hearts of the fathers turned to the children and the hearts of the children turned to the fathers and grandfathers.
Interesting idea, Ann. I will have to tell Sam he needs to become my grandfather 🙂
Thanks for the comment, Carol. Yes, it is! And, Sam is like family, too.
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What a wonderful post about those that you love. Happy birthday to little Eli! Are you drilling him with math problems?
Suerae:
Thanks for your comment and queries.
I don’t have to drill him yet- I think. He was discerning the basketball scores depicted on the screen for me during the last five minutes of the UNC/Miami game. And, counted carefully on his Chutes and Ladders game, as we played.
Oh, and he knew alliteration (his vocabulary) and rhyme…
(Proud grandpa- or as he calls me- Saba.)
Ok, I want to know which one is Sol in the picture.
2 heads to the left of Teddy, Alessa!
What a lovely story! Happy birthday to your grandson.
Thanks, Muriel.
He was thrilled that he even got his favorite meal last night!
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Happy birthday (late) from me. What a wonderful story, and what a wonderful memory. 😀
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Thanks, Lisa…
Eli had a great day yesterday. I presume Sam did as well (I have not reached him)…
And, then, there’s next week, when we’ll all be together.
What a great tribute–to your friend Sam and to your grandson Eli, who–I’m sure!–is quite blessed to have you as his grandpa.
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Thanks so much for that comment, Amy…
We all treasure our children and grandchildren…
RT @Widow_Lady302: The Ides of March… Plus 3 http://t.co/ji3x2ynYjh via @Adjuvancy
Sounds like you had wonderful role models & now you’ll be one for your grandson, Eli. Zissen Pessach to you & yours Roy. ~Debra
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Thanks for that comment, Debra. A wonderful Pesach to your family, as well.