My trip to visit Tutu and Papa was amazing. Just being around them and talking with them had a huge impact on me. Papa has good days and bad days, and sometimes he would doze off in his chair. I'm glad that the aides are there to help Tutu. I loved hearing stories about their lives, and I think they enjoyed reminiscing. They are both fantastic story tellers, and they have lived such interesting lives. I really look to them when I think of what it means to live a successful life. Their legacy isn't one of buildings built with their donations, but instead they have provided for all of their children and grandchildren, particularly in helping us all go to college. They bought my violin and sent me to Brentwood Academy and Vanderbilt, places where I have found my best friends. It was important for me to thank them in person for everything they've done for me. I was happy that I could play my violin for them and the Gundersons.
I had found a great book at the Boulder Bookstore, In Patagonia, by Bruce Chatwin. The book is broken up into small vignettes and short stories. I tried to write my journal in the same way, capturing interesting stories during my trip. I have always enjoyed journaling as it helps me solidify my memories of good experiences. I realized that life is a collection of interesting moments. There's usually a story worth remembering behind every person's quirks and idiosyncrasies. I hope I captured a snapshot of my grandparents during my time there. I kind of wish I had taken an actual picture of them, too.
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