Happy birthday Jaspare, you're missed  - Jeanne

One Year Ago

A year ago today my stepfather-in-law passed away.  RIP Jaspare.  We miss you.

The Aftermath of Losing Jaspare

Long night, less than two hours sleep. We still sent the kids to school, over their sincere objections, because keeping them busy is the best medicine (we hope). I went to the gym to avoid emotional eating, and now I hope to zz for a few hours.

RIP Jaspare

I lost my husband of 28 years, I will miss him, and I couldn't find a better man to love. Love you Jaspare, my teddy bear. -  Grandma J

R.I.P Grandpa Jaspare

I first met my stepfather-in-law when I was 20, on the day I met Lisa. The details are fuzzy, but within minutes of being introduced he either called me a Polack, swore at me in Italian, or otherwise violated social etiquette.

Sensing a kindred spirit, I returned in kind. 

He laughed in reply, and I liked him immediately.

Within a few months our trips for coffee together at George Webb's became routine.Although I didn't realize it, he became the one, in Lisa's words, to vett me for her family. 

A year later he was called in front of my parish priest to vouch for our upcoming marriage. My mother-in-law had already told the priest she dissapproved of the wedding - if my 19 year old daughter said she was engaged, I'd do the same - but Jaspare went to bat for us. According to the priest, he advocated for us in a manner more Perry Mason than retired factory worker. 

I owe you for that Jaspare.

He had his flaw, God knows, just like us all. But when we had kids he became a beloved Grandpa, one especially close to YaYa. 

I owe you for that too Jaspare. 

A few months ago, just after a house fire that drove my in-law's into temporary housing, he was diagnosed with a fatal brain tumor. 

Yesterday Team Slap went to say our goodbyes at his hospice. The kids hugged him and told him they loved him, and broke down in tears. I found myself crying too, and thanking him for being there for the family. 

Shortly after midnight, he passed away. 

Rest in Peace Jaspare. 

We love you, and we'll miss you. 

LuLu says goodbye to Grandpa Jaspare

I love you grandpa. Your going to a better place, there will be lots of chocolate pudding for you to eat and you'll see your mom and dad and you'll be happy. I love you very much. LuLu

An emotional evening. Goodbyes are hard. - Me

A Day with Junie and Grandpa

Monday was a tough day. Not without its good, but a tough day all the same. For part of it my #Bookends and I watched my stepfather-in-law. While there, LK talked me into playing Barbie with her.

The 1955 Artisan

My stepfather-in-law's Senior photo from the 1955 Tech yearbook.

YaYa takes her Grandpa to the Zoo

YaYa took her Grandpa to the zoo today all by herself for some one on one time.

Dinner with Jaspare's nephew

We went out to dinner with my in-law's and their nephew John, who is visiting from New Jersey.

Kneel Then Meal

Lighting candles for my stepfather-in-law after Mass

Then post-Mass breakfast with #TeamSlap. Kneel then meal baby, kneel then meal.

Horrible News

As all appropriate parties have been told privately, I can now mention what bad news hit us yesterday: Lisa's step-father has been diagnosed with a brain tumor and has been given less than four months to live. The kids were and are distraught, especially the older two. I ask that your prayers and thoughts continue for the extended family.

The Annual Christmas Party at Chuck E Cheese

Tonight was Grandma Jeanne 's annual Christmas party at Chuck E Cheese, which was combined with Jaspare's 78th birthday celebration. A great time was had by all!