My earliest memories of Granny and Grandad are all centred around their house in Ticehurst. The little bungalow that peeked out from the bushes always got me really excited. I really remember mostly just jumping out the car after a long journey and running to ring the doorbell first.
Now, I could list countless different ways in which the door was answered, but a few of my favourites include Grandad’s Native American hollering, or opening the door and hiding behind it, or Granny opening the door with a huge smile on her face, quickly followed by a tight squeeze or a hug. Either of these was just perfect and they’re some of my fondest memories.
Going slightly further up the road and I have so many great memories of playing football on the ‘MUGA’ (as Grandad would call it) or cricket up on the grass. The games of French cricket were both fun and terrifying. When Granny was bowling, there was a real fierce competitor who would not simply take it easy on you because you were a child.I think that feeling the ball shave the outside of my leg as it whipped past brought what I can only describe as a deep respect for Granny and her sporting prowess!
Back at the bungalow and I can remember so many wonderful roast dinners, as well as Christmas present openings and hilarious session of Wii Sports Island. I remember a solo trip down to Sussex where I came to Granny with a song I wanted to learn and by the end I pretty much had it down. As someone who is presently working as a teacher, I think you may have been one that got away for the profession. You always made me feel that I was very nearly there with whatever I was trying to achieve, even if I was obviously still quite a long way off. These teaching skills were brought very much back into my conscience recently when watching you encouraging Georgia on the piano. The joy on both of your faces when she started to play and gain confidence was just a beautiful full circle moment for me.
I acknowledge that I wasn’t the easiest grandchild to bring up at times but I am so thankful that I have had you to guide me along the way. So, thank you Granny.
Similarly, when anybody asks me who my ultimate hero is, my mind always goes straight to Grandad. I think from the moment I first heard you calling out ‘Boyo’ to me I was absolutely sold. A lot of my attitude towards working with children now comes from the way in which you interacted with me when I was little. Even if just a tiny bit, I hope that I can pass on the happiness that you made me feel as a child.
Some of the happiest moments of my life have been just playing football with you, getting up early to go to the shop (and to get a treat… shhh don’t tell mum), playing cricket, or even the old fantasy football games you used to show me. One of my most cherished possessions is the book of newspaper clippings that you sent me with little questions and trivia throughout. I think that I can still name most of the grounds and nicknames of the teams in the English football pyramid because of you.
More recently, it meant the world to me to be able to go and spend time with you at your painting lessons. Sitting there painting landscapes with you was one of the most peaceful and happiest days I can remember ever having. To know you and to call you a role model has been one of the biggest blessings of my life.
Grandad, thank you for everything. You’re my hero.
I would like to wish you both the happiest of wedding anniversaries. 60 years is a wonderful achievement and I wish for many many more. The world wouldn’t be the same without:
“For goodness sake Alan” and “For crying out loud Gwen”.
Keep loving each other and reflect on the most wonderful of marriages.
All my love,
Jack x
