Happy Birthday Pa

I haven't done a "guest" post in a while, so here is my next subject.  Leonard William Stahl, Jr.  aka Pa to the little people.  When we told him we were pregnant, he couldn't figure out what he wanted to be called.  He joked about how they would call him "Grandfather".  But, Pa fits just right.  We took a trip to the mountains to celebrate all 64 years of Pa even though C kept telling Pa he was 3. 

Leonard is a great man, hard working and loves his family so much.  He learned how to be a carpenter from his Dad, Leonard Sr.  He is amazing with his hands even though he wore a suit for most of his career.  He fell in love with Nancy when they were very young(much to her family's protest) and took her all over the states when he was drafted.  They had two adorable boys to which Jess and I are very grateful and had a pretty traditional life.  Gregg talks about Pizza Nights on Fridays, big breakfasts on Sats and Steak and Potatoes on Sunday.  

He has taught his boys to always kiss their wives right when they walk in the door, help clean up the dishes, and he is very thoughtful with birthday presents.  He has been a great provider and the rock in his extended family.  He loves Nancy unconditionally and is an amazing son to his mom, Callie.  He loves hole in the wall places to eat, but doesn't like "stupid" people.  He often calls out of the blue to say he is in the neighborhood...to come and see the kids.  He would drop anything to come and help us out, with our car or our leaking ceiling.       

Leonard and I have this special bond.  We are both business type people and love to discuss the latest news.  I always listen to his stories.  He told me I was the daugter he never had and that makes me very happy.  He and Nancy really value education and were very encouraging to me during college.

We knew Leonard was going to be a "good" grandpa, but we didn't know he was going to be a "great" grandpa.  He is so loving with the kids.  He and C have this special thing about reading books right when he comes in the door.  Callie has even come around and become Pa's girl.  I think be bribed her with Reeces.   He bought C his first fishing pole and told him today that once his boo boo heals, he will take him fishing.  This picture is so sweet.  C is rubbing his hair as Pa is talking to him.  C keeps saying "it is ok Pa, I got you".  Little Buddy makes me tear up with his sweet sensitive side.     

I know that Gregg is the man he is a lot because of his Dad.  Gregg is an excellent employee, does the right thing, protects me at all costs, and actually does the dishes.  I know this is because he had a great example at home.

Lots of birthday kisses and homemade cards. 

Happy Birthday Pa...we love you very much.