The warmth and love that emanated from my grandparents had a profound physical effect on me. It was as if their care and compassion could be felt in every fiber of my being. Whenever my grandmother made popcorn, the tantalizing aroma would fill the air, making my mouth water and my stomach grumble with anticipation. And even though she playfully warned me about our stomachs blowing up, it was all part of the fun and excitement of our popcorn tradition. As the clock struck 8:00 PM on Tuesday nights, my heart would race with excitement as Ed Sullivan's show began. The anticipation would build, and I would eagerly sit beside my grandparents, captivated by the performances on the screen. The joy and happiness that radiated from those moments left a lasting imprint on my soul. Learning to fish with my grandparents was not just about acquiring a skill; it was a lesson in patience, focus, and connection with nature. I can still feel the gentle rocking of the boat, the sun warming my skin, and the thrill of reeling in a catch. Their guidance and encouragement instilled in me a love for the outdoors and a sense of accomplishment. The camp in Ashby held a special place in my heart. The darkness and mystery of the night would send shivers down my spine, but the comforting presence of my grandparents made it all worthwhile. We would swim in the cool waters, laugh, and create memories that would last a lifetime. The camp became a sanctuary of adventure and togetherness. Thanksgiving at my grandparents' apartment was a feast for the senses. The air would be filled with the aroma of savory dishes, and the sound of laughter and conversation filled every corner. The cranberry sauce, a delicacy in our family, would add a tangy and sweet touch to the bountiful meal. It was a time of abundance, gratitude, and the joyous company of loved ones. Through their acts of caring and compassion, my grandparents left an indelible mark on my life. Their love, warmth, and the physical effects of their presence shaped me into the person I am today. This fourth volume dedicated to them will serve as a testament to the profound impact they had on my life and the enduring memories we shared. The weight of my grandfather's absence and the pain of losing my grandmother manifested itself physically within me. It felt as though a heavy boulder had
settled in the pit of my stomach, causing a constant ache that refused to dissipate. My heart would tighten with each thought of them, as if being constricted by an invisible grip. It was as if a piece of me had been torn away, leaving behind an emptiness that echoed through my entire being. The grief also affected my sleep, as I would often toss and turn at night, haunted by memories and longing for their presence. Dark circles formed under my eyes, a testament to the sleepless nights spent grappling with the reality of their absence. Even during the day, fatigue would creep in, weighing down my limbs and clouding my thoughts. But amidst the physical toll of grief, there were also moments of solace. The warmth of the sun on my skin, just as it had comforted my grandfather, became a source of comfort for me as well. I would find myself seeking solace in the gentle embrace of sunlight, allowing its rays to seep into my very core, offering a temporary respite from the pain. Driving in the snow, a skill my grandfather had taught me, became a therapeutic escape. The cold air against my face, the sound of the tires crunching on the snow-covered road, provided a momentary distraction from the overwhelming sadness. It was as if I could momentarily forget the weight of my loss and find solace in the simple act of maneuvering through the wintry landscape. Though their physical presence may be gone, the love and memories of my grandparents continue to reside within me, etched deep in my heart and soul. They shaped who I am today, and their absence serves as a constant reminder to cherish the time spent with loved ones and to carry their legacies forward.