My beautiful parents have been married 43 years. They have four biological children and six adopted children. The two youngest girls still live at home with Mom and Dad because those girls are just too sweet to let them move out. The girls also have many physical needs due to their impairments. There are 20 grandchildren and two great grandchildren, so far, all of whom they love dearly.
My parents are devout in their love for Our Lord and His Church. They are a beacon to all who know them, especially their children. They have done monumental things in their quiet, steady manner.
They are a homeschooler's dream parents. Their home has always been lined with books. There is a huge dictionary, on a dictionary stand my brother made, in the living room. And they use it, because they are scholars of Etymology. A favorite spinning toy of the littlest grandchildren is the globe in an old-fashioned globe stand that sits on the floor, also used often for reference. When the pile of books I need to pre-read for my children gets backlogged, I bring the pile to my parents and they review them for me.
Because they are thinkers, readers and writers, they constantly have some writing or research project going on for the sheer joy of it. There is good conversation to be had in their living room or at the kitchen table. They have always been poor and live simply. However, they count among their friends and acquaintances a vast array of the poor and down trodden to some of the world's movers and shakers and intellectual thinkers; friendships, bonded by a love of the Faith, great books and music.
My parents are unique in that they owned a car only briefly during their married life. They live in town and walk or use public transportation. Dad, now retired, always walked to and from work. As a result they are the fittest 'old folks' you will ever meet. In fact a nurse, in a clinical study Dad participated in, told him that he "is the perfect specimen of a man." He hasn't let mom forget it!
My humble parents live, love and laugh. Their quiet strength is like steel, refined through many trials. They have a rich and holy life, worthy of emulating in many respects. I don't think my brothers and sisters and I fully appreciate what we have been given in having Don and Reona as our parents.
What an amazing and fitting tribute to your wonderful parents. May God bless them always.
Posted by: Alice Gunther | October 02, 2006 at 12:36 AM
Dear Bridget,
I agree with every word you wrote. Your parents are truly living saints. I saw first hand how they lovingly and tenderly took care of my dear Aunt Mary. It meant more to me than I could ever express with words. John 15 v.13 says "There is no greater love than to lay down your life for your friends." Your parents live that. It gladdens my heart to know all of their sacrifices are known to our Lord and He will reward them greatly in heaven!!! Love and prayers to you and your amazing parents!!!! -Heidi
Posted by: Heidi | October 02, 2006 at 02:48 AM
Bridget, Your dear parents look great. Say hi to them for me. They are such great parents - from everything to the beautiful baptismal candles to the dollhouses they make! I can't believe how the children have all grown! And Maria is a blondie like Alex. How we miss you all! Love,Christina
Posted by: Christina | October 03, 2006 at 12:52 AM
Oh, Bridget, this is so beautiful!
Posted by: Maria | October 03, 2006 at 09:52 AM
Bridget,
At our last park day Heidi shared with me the many blessings your wonderful parents have been to her family and so many others.
I was left in awe of them and you. It's a blessing to know that we still have heroic Catholic families in today's world who we can look up to and follow.
God Bless you and them.
Posted by: Cay in La. | October 03, 2006 at 08:02 PM