Andre, Big G, Grandpapa, Santa's Swiss Brother...

All names for my grandpa. If you've never had the chance to meet him, well shame on you. He's quite the character. I've always been pretty close to my grandfather especially since he's lived with us since I was 12. Recently his health has been declining, but you'd never know it by how optimistic he is. At times like these it's hard to be away from my family, but I know that he's in good hands back in Utah. My Mom sent me an email earlier today that made me not only grateful to have such a man in my life, but to be grateful for all that I have.

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

The prophet Alma urged, "Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day."

"How are you doing today?" asked the doctor.
"Terrifically fine!" said my almost 92 year old father.
His response last Thursday was no different than it had been for the many years we have visited this particular doctor, or any other. My father has been widowed for nearly 17 years. He has been legally blind for 16 years, hard of hearing for over 10 years, and has had chronic kidney disease for over 10 years. As usual, my father quickly tuned out to the rest of the conversation the doctor had about his failing health. I was the one who had to hear the news and make the decisions.

My father is now in kidney failure, but with the doctor's blessing, we decided to not do dialysis. Instead, the doctor suggested to contact Hospice.
Friday, we met with a Hospice nurse. Monday, we met with the Home Health Aide and also the Spiritual Care Coordinator (LDS Chaplain). Wednesday we will meet with the doctor who will attend him at home. There will be other specialists down the road, as needed. Everyone is so positive and helpful. It is truly a blessing!
My father, Andre Liardet, is also a blessing to everyone he ever comes in contact with. He is always upbeat and happy. He always uses humor and likes to sing. Even in his weakened state, he keeps us laughing. He plays Swiss tunes on his harmonica for all the visitors. Everyday, he says about a dozen times or so in his french accent "It is a beautiful day!" It could be raining, snowing, hot or cold, it doesn't matter. For every meal, he blesses his food and also tells me "Thank you very much". He says his prayers every night, with gratitude. Although he has had trials, disappointments and challenges throughout his life, as we all do, he has remained faithful, true and appreciative. His spirit IS terrifically fine!

President Hinkley said "We should all be thankful to the Almighty for His wonderful blessings upon us. We have all that this great age has to offer in the world. How lucky can we be, really? We ought to be grateful, to be thankful, to walk with appreciation and respect for the blessings of life and happiness that we enjoy."

God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say "thank you"? - William A. Ward

I know that it's his inner strength that has kept him going all these years. He has a goal to make it to 100 years old, so you never know!

Here are some pictures of Andre at his finest:

I'll never forget when he asked for some peanut butter and nuts to make these Oreo eyes. Always a crack up!

The binoculars are an accessory that he wears very well.

This is just about the most casually dressed I've ever seen him.

Meeting his great-grandson Ethan for the first time.

Though he acts excited for every meal, he's got a special place in his heart for fondue.

Playing a little ditty for Ethan.