Poppy

I am a very blessed granddaughter.  My grandparents and great parents are all amazing people and I have many fond memories of times spent with them.  I am also the oldest grandchild on both sides of our family.  When I was just beginning to talk, I began calling my mom's dad, Poppy. From that point on, he has been known to all of us grandchildren and great grandchildren as Poppy.

Poppy is one of the hardest workers I have ever met.  Anything that he does, he does it with zest and zeal.  He was a city councilman in our home state of New Jersey.  A man of integrity with a passion for bettering his community. I remember going to his office once when I was young. It was evident to me that he was a well respected and liked man.  I am very proud of him.

Poppy and Grandma have always kept such amazing gardens at their homes.  The have mega-green thumbs.  And as for fishing, I swear that Poppy has some magical powers that bring the fish to him in droves.  He is also a really talented cook and has an appreciation for fine dining.

The most important lesson that Poppy has taught me over the years is how important it is to persevere despite life's obstacles and hardships.  Poppy had polio as a child, as a result his leg and lungs were weakened.  That has not stopped him though.  He is a fighter, and he doesn't just get the job done, he gets it done well.

Last January, our family celebrated a milestone birthday with Poppy.  Actually, we surprised him.  My niece Heather of Lisbet Photography was on hand to capture some really beautiful photographs of the special day.

Here are some highlights:

The moment of the surprise...

Followed by lots of hugs

from his children...

 

his grandchildren...

and his great grandchildren...

And then a sweet toast from my mom, the oldest daughter...

With lots of great food (Italian, of course!) and even better company...

More pictures of almost all of the children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

I can't believe that a year has passed since Poppy's last birthday!  We all had such a wonderful time celebrating him. 

And now, I want to wish Poppy another HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! May you be richly blessed this year. Let's go out to our favorite restaurant really soon and have smoked fish and artichokes, okay? I will even come over and iron your shirt for you (teeheehee)

Love, 

Melissa (your oldest grand daughter)