Visiting Grandpa Berrett (you gotta read the ending)

We paid a visit to Brian’s mom’s dad in Provo last Saturday. He was kind enough to agree to babysit Brianna for us that night so we could go to the Valentine’s dance. But since Brianna would be asleep the entire time he was “babysitting” her (8-10pm), we wanted him to have some actual Brianna-time.
I remember back when Brian and I were dating and I went to visit him for the first time in Utah. We did a little relatives-tour where I was taken to home after home of his extended family (almost all of them live in the same county – seemed very odd to me, but I’ve realized it’s not atypical for Utahns). The stark contrast between Brian’s two Grandparents was incredible – Grandpa McKell has a fairly simple, bare-walled home, and Grandpa Berrett has more STUFF in one house than I’ve seen in any other. Ever. Grandpa McKell lives on twinkies, white bread and red meat, while Grandpa Berrett professes zealous health consciousness. He’s also not shy about asserting his stance on nutrition or calling others out on their lack of discretion, while Grandpa McKell has said many times that he doesn’t want to seem too “preachy” about anything (usually referring to the financial advice he proffers). Both lost their wives last year and seem to profoundly miss them, yet continue living productive lives in high spirits. I feel so blessed to have them both in my life, especially since I lost my own grandpa several years ago (my dad’s dad – my mom’s dad I never met).

Anyways – back to the visit:

When Grandpa answered the door for us he yelled to the back room, “Marjorie, we have company!” He laughed… but I found that kindof sad and awkward.

Brianna quickly made herself at home, ignoring the toys placed before her and going after every breakable item within reach. I think that made Grandpa anxious.
Whenever we come visit, Grandpa asks me to play the piano (which is odd, since he plays quite well himself). Of course, Brianna couldn’t let me play alone.
While we were chatting, the following conversation took place:

Me: “So Grandpa, tell us about your cruise to New Zealand last week – how was it?”
Gpa: “So amazing! I took 600 pictures. I need to go to Costco to get them developed.”
Me: “What was your favorite part?”
Gpa: “Ohh – this nice 82 year old lady gave me a hug and a kiss. Whoo-hoo – all those old feelings came back – it was great!”
Me (laughing): “Oh really! That’s pretty funny.”
Gpa: “Yeah, she told me at first that she was only 80. But then I found out she was actually 82.
And she has MONEY too!
There were actually LOTS of older women that hugged me on the ship.”
Me (still laughing – taking out pen and paper): “Grandpa, I’m not surprised at all.”
Gpa: “What are you doing? Are you writing down what I’m saying?”
Me: “Yep. I’m going to blog it. You’re funny.”
Gpa: “I’ve heard of that blog thing. Don’t know what it is. But I can say lotsa more funny things for your bloggings.”

Anyone think I should take him up on the offer?