Andy stared at nothing far away. “I think he was my best friend.”

“Mine too.”

Andy looked at her. “How come God took him to heaven?”

“I ask the same question, but there is no answer.”

“Do you think he and Grandpa Bill are together?”

“Yes, I do. The Bible says there will be a great crowd of people to welcome him home. I know your mom’s father is one of them.”

“I want him to come back but I know that won’t happen. But sometimes I dream he did come back but then he leaves again and won’t take me with him.”

“Nightmares?”

“Uh-huh. I feel like I’m screaming. Dad said sometimes I do scream in my sleep.”

“People tell me all these things will go away with time, just part of the grieving. And I can tell they’re right. But one thing I know he wants me to tell you is how much he loved and still loves you and always will. Andy, he was so proud of you. He loved to spend time with you and teach you how to take care of the animals and the land, use the tools. You learn so fast and try so hard. I’m so glad you can see that you weren’t just related, you are friends too.” She refused to use the past tense.

“I miss his cheering at my ball games. Remember how he’d yell at the umpire sometimes? At first it embarrassed me a little but all the guys on my team thought he was the greatest.”

“Such good memories we have.”

He was silent awhile but she could see he was struggling with something he wanted or perhaps did not want to say. His voice dropped to a whisper. “Grandma, I got mad at God and Grandpa too.”

“Boy, do I understand that!”

“Really?”

“Oh yes. Andy, such feelings are part of this whole thing. But they will go away, and the more we talk about him and remember the good times, the sooner we will be better. Pastor Mike has told me that several times. He stops by now and then.” She smiled. “He says it’s for the cookies. So I guess I finally believe it. I am so glad you are talking with me. I needed this and I think you did too.”

He nodded and reached for a tissue. “Yeah.”

Spook announced family again.

“They’re here.” He sat up straighter.

“So let the party begin.” She stood and reached for him. “I’m afraid that one of these days you won’t let me hug you anymore, so I’ll get them while I still can. I love you, Andy boy. I love you enough for both of us. And I know Grandpa is smiling down on us right now. He’s not here in human form, but I believe he is watching over us and cheering us on.”

Andy kissed her cheek, something he’d not done for the last couple of years. “I love you, Grandma.” He hugged her again and headed for the car to help unload.