71

Tonight we celebrated my Dad's 71st birthday.  The 27th was his actual big day, but with Meg's swim meet we decided to wait until today.  The Heinisch children provided him with the typical Grandpa gifts - candy (which they opened immediately and started eating), a book about serial killers and a "Learn to Juggle" activity set.  Cal spent the rest of the evening working on his juggling skills with the claim that he would be the first to master the art.  Grandma Jane made Grandpa one of his favorites - a Texas cake.  We all enjoyed a piece of that.

As I later reflected upon my Dad's birthday, I thought about his role as Grandpa Cutes.  From the first time Brett called him that until now, the Heinisch children have just loved hanging out with their Grandpa.  Each one took a turn charging him for swearing, and made at least $20 a piece on that endeavor.  They have gone to the movies with him, played games, watched TV and spent hours golfing, fishing and swimming with him.  He is an important part of their life no matter their age.  As we drove away from my parents home yesterday, Cal summed up their feelings the best by exclaiming, "Man, I just love Grandpa.  He is so funny, even when he doesn't mean to be."