A family tradition...

I've been doing a lot of reflecting on my family lately, us grandkids are growing up; getting married, starting families and making our own way in life.  However, it hasn't been until recently that I've realized how much of my grandparents, especially my mom's dad Joseph, I'm being reminded of.

Joe passed away years ago but he left a legacy.  If you don't believe me, I urge you to visit Whiting, In and ask around. 

He lived for his family and his church.  I only lived in Whiting for a short while before my family and I moved so I don't remember too much about the city, but I do remember grandpa Joe.  As I said earlier, he lived for his family and the church ...he also worked at St. Johns too; extremely hard I might add.  It seems there wasn't anything he wouldn't do for those he loved.

Growing up, my siblings and I moved around a lot.  But, that didn't stop my grandparents from visiting.  New Mexico, Illinois, South Carolina and California; everytime we moved my grandparents always made the trip to come see us, even when Joe was lugging around an oxygen tank.  At the time I never really paid attention to it, probably because I was just a stupid kid, but I'm beginning to understand...

Family is THE most important thing you can have.

During my cousin Sarah's wedding a few weeks ago, my uncle pulled my brother and I aside and said, "Let's do a shot!" Before we drank, he gave us the usual, thanks for your service schpeel.

But, then he paused, raised his high-ball glass and said, "...it's not just this wedding, but you Starzyks have always traveled so far to see us,  even when you don't have too, that's the important thing!"