Sunday, December 20, 2009

graduation sunday

What a glorious day! My 88-year old grandpa received his high school diploma during church this morning. When he was a teenager, Grandpa left high school to work on the family dairy farm and later was drafted to serve in World War II. He has spent his life on that farm, working so hard, raising his family, carrying on his German heritage and sharing his love for God (in the same church that most of my family still attends so many years later.)




My dear dad (that's him up there at the podium) has been working for months to gather paperwork and obtain his diploma because Grandpa had told my dad and his 4 brothers a few times over the years, "I sure wish I'd have gotten my high school diploma."
It was a complete surprise for Grandpa this morning...and he beamed from ear to ear. After the service, he jokingly said that maybe he could get a good job now. Love you, Grandpa Pearl!

12 comments:

~ The Jolly Bee ~ said...

Tami -- What a great story! That will be the best gift your grandfather receives this year. Congratulations to him (and your Dad) for making this happen. Have a great holiday.

Christy said...

Wow! What a great gift that was for him. I'm sure he was absolutely thrilled. Your church is gorgeous, what a special place to honor him. :)

Blog said...

Tears in my eyes. Congratulations to your Grandpa and...wow...what a testament to the amazing family you are a part of.

Marina Capano said...

lovely post!

★Feliz Navidad - Merry Christmas from Only cute things★

Run Lori Run said...

Oh, what a nice story. What a wonderful thing to do for him, I'm sure he was thrilled!

Grandma Yellow Hair said...

Love your post Tami.....such a wonderful story to share with us. I am so happy for your grandfather. He must be beside himself with joy.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Maggie

Dogwood said...

Tears...that is the sweetest story! I am so proud of you dad for giving that precious gift to his very deserving dad.

Thanks for sharing all the sweet photos!

Have a very nice evening.

Bev said...

Congratulations to your Grandpa...what a wonderful gift :)
and what a wonderful heritage of love to pass down.

Jen said...

dangit...now i'm all teared up. :)

Denise Kiggan said...

What a heartwarming story! What a privilege to have an 88 year old grandpa too. Enjoy your Christmas with your family.

Who's J.E. Dickerson? said...

How lucky you are to still have your grandparents! I miss mine everyday.

Loved the story... and the photo of the wreath hanging in the church's beautiful window brought tears to my eyes.

Have a wonderful Christmas with your sweet family!

Modern Crush said...

That is awesome!!