From The Editor
Grandparents, Editors and Writers
September is Grandparent's Month, so it is only natural I should be thinking of my grandparents. I had the good fortune of knowing three of my grandparents, but sadly my maternal grandfather passed away when I was an infant. I never had the opportunity to sit in his lap and listen to his stories, spoken with his strong Norwegian accent. He was a hard-working South Dakota farmer who passed away in the barn on a spring morning more than half a century ago.
Both of my grandmothers lived long full lives, affording me the luxury of knowing them well. I also knew my father's father -- my namesake -- although he died in his 70s of emphysema. He never smoked a day in his life. Nor did he drink. Makes me think that living a long life is really a lucky roll of the genetic dice.
At any rate, I well remember spending Christmas holidays and summer vacations with my father's parents. And my grandmother would, on occasion, come down from South Dakota and spend time with us. Sometimes we made the trek to see her.
I wish I had had the technology (and the foresight) to have recorded their oral histories. What a treasure trove of knowledge.
My grandfather kept journals, revealing a wonderful sense of humor and a keen intellect. Otherwise, I have only photographs and memories -- and the occasional hand-written letter -- to give me a glimpse into their lives and times.
Now I am Grandpa Isaac, a title I'm still growing accustomed to. Perhaps I should begin writing my memoir so my grandkids and great grandkids can learn about my life in the 20th and 21st centuries. I should get started now.
My mother's grandmother was an expert in the old ways, including but not limited to crocheting and making quilts. She continued her craft well into her 90s, even though she was nearly blind.
In this edition of Senior Times, Mary Kypreos writes about the age-old craft of quilt making, a tradition carried on by the members of the Domestic Skills Group. In October, visitors to Dudley Farm can learn about this craft during the "Walk Through Time Quilt Exhibit."
Also, in celebration of Grandparent's Month, I asked Chris Wilson to write about his grandfather, Harold Wilson, World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient.
Fall is finally upon us and it is back to school for most students, so in this edition, Michelle Ashworth writes about learning opportunities for Seniors in Alachua and Marion counties. It is never too late to learn new things.
September is also Be Kind to Editors and Writers Month. So, if you see something you like, please consider sending the author a note. Writers often work without positive feedback, and kind words can make a world of difference in the life of a wordsmith. §
