to My Grandparents - Pearl and Ivin Gee
By Kristin G. Miller
Aug. 11, 2000

 I love my Grandparents. They have loved my children and me. This has meant the world to me. Our birthdays have been remembered, our troubles have been prayed over by Grandma and Grandpa. No greater support could be given, even as they have aged and their own concerns have increased. Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa.

Their example of hard work, doing what is right, and showing respect for people has been very important to me. When growing up, I was quite intimidated by Grandpa's stern looks and expectations of respectful behavior, but was always desirous to please. One time, while eating one of Grandma's wonderful meals, I made the mistake of cutting one of her homemade rolls with a knife. I quickly learned that was a great insult to Grandma's cooking.

Most of my memories of Grandma and Grandpa start with Paris, Idaho. I had a feeling of great importance there because they let me help fix that special house. I am sure I was in the way more than any help but I sure felt important. Yes it did get hard and I am sure I complained, and I am just as sure Grandpa didn't hear a word of it. One fun day, Grandma and I were tearing down all the horsehair plaster in the "Blue Room". It was hot, dusty and dirty. We would put the plaster in a bucket and lower it by pulley out the window. Grandma took off the covering to an old chimney hole in the wall. A poof of black soot got her right in the face. She slowly turned to me and opened her eyes, and just like in the cartoons, she looked like a raccoon, with two little white eyes peering out from under a black mask. I didn't know if I should laugh or what, until Grandma started to giggle. We had a big mess to clean up!

Grandma has always had a wonderful smell to her. I once remember thinking she smelled of applesauce. Silly, but I still think of applesauce when I give Grandma a hug. I always think of Grandpa when I hear anything about Paul Harvey, and The Rest of the Story. Every day at noon we would come in for lunch and Paul Harvey.

I love my memories of Grandma and Grandpa. I love that they are still here making even more memories. I am so glad to have been able to receive my patriarchal blessing from my Grandpa. That right there says how valiant they are to the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am thankful for their example in missionary and temple work. I am thankful for all the time Grandma has spent in my behalf in quilting, sewing my wedding dress with my mom, crocheting. I remember sewing a summer jumper with her, and feeling so special.

My dad, Martell, is such a great dad because of the way he was raised; he has taught me well, because he was taught well. I have a great desire to do as they have done. Teach correct principles in love and by example. I truly do have a great heritage. Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa Gee.