My grandmother lived a long and stunning life. She and Grandpa VB created a large and loving family together.  There is nothing better than the photo we have of all the first generation VanBoxtel grandchildren.  I am the youngest grandchild and I cannot be much older than 2-3 in that photo. The rest of the grandchildren are sprawled across a couch in the woods with their early 90's hairstyles and grins. A few years after that photo was taken, the grandchildren had children and the family continued to grow. So much so that my grandpa built a pavilion to host family parties because we were outgrowing any one house.

I flew back to Wisconsin so I could be there for her life's celebration. I stayed a few extra days to visit with family while I was in the area with Drew. It is difficult to find the perfect words to describe how humble and adorable Grandma Dorothy was. She was quiet, yet powerful. We went on many vacations together when I was younger and played card games that lasted for days and weeks. My grandma's birthday was one day after mine, so we were birthday buddies. She taught me so much without saying anything at all. I hope I age as gracefully as she did.

We saw a few of Joel's friends at the services and decided to get together later that week so I could meet their beautiful new daughter. A new baby girl, so precious and little and perfect. We met up for dinner and were able to catch up while I was in town.  It's always so nice to see them. I wish we lived closer so we could have a few more KBC's in Dan's man cave basement!  There's always the next time I'm in town!

The remaining days in Wisconsin I enjoyed time with my parents and Paul's parents. We had a nice dinner together in Appleton and spent some time with Drew. It's always fun for Drew to be showered with love from his Grandparents!

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