September

I used to love September, but these days I am torn. Growing up, September meant cooler, crisp North Dakota evenings. I could open the windows at night and smell he autumn air. It was wonderful. Now, I'm in Virginia and September means muggy, hot days and not much cooler evenings. It is not even fun to be out day or night. We haven't had an open window in 4 months and I'm getting tired of the AC running all the time.

September also meant my Grandpa Kristianson's birthday. He passed away almost 5 years ago. I miss him dearly. Some days I wake up and think he's still at home, but then realize he is not. It is painful that he never got to meet Roger and see me so happy. I know he would have loved the Skophammer family and been so happy for me. I think he would be proud of my teaching and working toward my Master's Degree. Even now, I tear up thinking about him. He was a great man and the perfect grandpa for me. September reminds me that he is gone.

I do have lots to love about September even now. My friends Jennie, Jim and Dawn all have birthdays in September. Josh turns 15 in a few weeks and I couldn't be happier. I can't wait for his birthday dinner, which I am invited because according to Josh, I am a part of the family. Also, my friend Jauson has a son born in September. Football has started. Baseball is still on and the race for the playoffs is in full swing.

So, while I adore autumn and look forward to September, I find myself both happy and melancholy that it is here. Memories of Grandpa compete with thoughts of the joy of Josh's birthday party. I guess that is all a part of life. My Grandpa is always with me, and probably enjoys Josh's birthday parties as well.