GATEWAYS TO THE FUTURE 2/7-20/2013

The gateways to the future are paved with the stones laid in the past.  As we wander through life, we gradually begin to see more clearly the future being filled by those of younger years.  Just as we earlier in our lives walked upon the roads laid by those before us, so we gradually see that path we laid being trod upon by those who will someday lay roads of their own.  Getting older and seeing our posterity grow is an interesting process.
 Ann and Wayne were invited to spend 10 days with four grand children, the brood belonging to our second son and his wife.

 For ten days they were ours to care for.  Blessed with sunny California weather, we basked in the warmth of little children's laughter as we were thrust into the once familiar role of caretakers of little ones.  Though the task was familiar from years past, the moves, thoughts and actions were rusty.  School, church, athletics, scouts, baths, laundry for more than 2, meal preparation, bed times, stubbornness all brought back memories of years past.

 Though defeat was not an option, we learned that de feet were all growing rapidly.  Feet preparing to trod down the path of life as we older ones step aside.  But before we step aside, we find there are many lessons to be taught and many to be learned, plus.....

 ...there's fun to be had....

 ....surprises to enjoy....

 ...sunshine to absorb.

 We found that we were so busy that we took very few pictures but our hearts are filled with memories.
Wayne remembers in 1963 being a brand new 11 year old boy scout, so in awe of those bigger scouts ahead of him and so proud of his new scout uniform.

Now, 50 years later it was fun for Wayne to take his grandson, a brand new 11 year old scout, with his new uniform, to his first scout meeting.....

 Where he too looked upon older scouts and said, "Grandpa, I want to be an Eagle Scout like Cory."  So Grandpa took a picture.  And the road continues on.

 The future is held in the hands of the younger generation.

Those of the past still walk down the road, only a little slower and with a few more aches and pains,

but the memories of the past linger on and we smile, pleased with where we have been.....

and satisfied with where we are headed and in whose hands the roads of the future will be built.
Spending a week with a few grand kids while their parents were back east on business was hard and we were happy when we could sleep in our own bed and wake up to the peaceful sounds of the ocean waves of the Pacific Ocean so near, but it was good fun and satisfying!  Life is good!