Just before he flew back home to the States, Grandpa Jean came over for dinner. We hadn’t seen a whole lot of him on the trip, he liked to go sightseeing on his own schedule. But we did want him to come over at least once and just hang out. It was a bit tricky, since there are three flights of stairs up to our apartment, no elevator, and he is 97 years old!
The original plan is that he would come over when Chris was home and they could figure out how to get up the stairs together. But Grandpa was really excited to see us, and he showed up much earlier. I couldn’t leave him just standing around outside, so I went downstairs and discussed with him how we should tackle it. I ended up standing behind him, in case he fell backwards, and literally pushed him up the stairs. I didn’t have to push him the entire way, he is pretty strong and pulled himself up using the rail most of the way. But there were a few spots where he got tired, and at the very top there is no rail, so I really did push him the whole way.
It was a lovely visit, and he loved the food. I cooked a shepherd’s pie that uses bread chunks instead of meat, as he has dentures and can only eat soft things. The mushroom cream gravy is what put it over the top, I think.
The kids all played their musical instruments for him, and many art projects were oohed and aahed over as well. I also made sure that everybody got a picture with him, since it is most likely the last time they will see him. I think it is pretty special that they are able to spend any time with their great grandfather, and want them to remember these special times, even though they are still so young.
Thanks for making the effort to come visit us, Grandpa! We love you!
