Kuznia Christmas-Goodbye Grandpa Louie

These pictures are precious for many reasons and were the last that were taken of Grandpa Louie before he passed.  We were so glad to have had the time with him at Christmas, but so hard at the same time to think that we had seen him just days before with all his great Grand kids piled on his lap trying to get a Christmas picture.  Notice Reagan had to sit with Grandpa Louie---she talks about him all the time!! 

Justin, Reagan and I drove to Angus, Christmas Eve to celebrate The Kuznia Christmas.  Not only did we have special last memories with Grandpa, Damon and Ashley hosted a great meal and Santa came to visit for all the kids.  I thought Reagan would be scared but she was one of the first to go up and say, "Hi Santa!!"  She was jumping up and down when he came in saying, "Santa's here!!"  Santa had a bag full of presents for each kiddo, and the kids had fun opening presents from the kids' gift exchange. 

Justin and I got the news that Grandpa was not doing well only days later while we were both in the Bahamas.  I can't imagine how hard it was for all the family to have to say good-bye while at his side, but hard for Justin too, to not be able to say good-bye.  We debated many times whether or not to come home early. 

Grandpa passed Friday, on New Year's Eve, and we came home Saturday, late.  We then headed north to Grandpa's wake on Sunday night and funeral on Monday.  Explaining death to a 2 year old was not fun, to say the least.  We explained to Reagan that Grandpa Louie went to live with Jesus in heaven.  Obviously, she didn't understand, and something that is hard for even us to understand.     

Jerrod spoke at his funeral and did an absolutely amazing job!!  He shared memories of Grandpa Louie.  Justin will always remember how he would pull all the grand kids on sleds behind The Colt snowmobile at the farm, and his BUR-RU-GA horn. 

We will remember his positive outlook on life and comments like, "It is, what it is!"  or "Well, back to W-O-R-K tomorrow, but at least there's work to do."  He was, as Jerrod quoted him, The World's Biggest Optimist!"  What an inspiration to life and to all his family.  We will remember how he would pull quarters out of his pockets each time Reagan came around for her piggy bank.  We loved to hear him counting her toes in Polish as she sat on his lap. 

We will always keep close the sound of his laugh and will forever hear his cheerful whistle.  We love and miss you Grandpa Louie!!