My mother's name is Jane Hawkes, thanks to a man by the name of P. Blaine Hawkes who married her in 2003, and he brought with him a peace, joy, and steadiness to our family. Grandpa Blaine passed away in December 2007 from complications following heart surgery. He is missed by so many with 10 children and more than 50 grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is missed by me as well. I was especially affected by him in many ways. He introduced me into the sport and hobby of dog sledding, something that has become a big part of my life for the past six years. He was a great example of patience and thoughtfulness. He would sit at his chair and write in his journal every evening. He would sit in his garage and contemplate new projects. He spent many hours building a dog training cart for me. Most of all, he helped my mom and provided activities, companionship, and love for her. We added the name of Percy (Blaine's first name) to the front of our youngest son's name when we blessed him in tribute to Grandpa Blaine.
About a month ago, Blaine's oldest son Bill invited us over to his home along with my mom, who was visiting from California. Many of Bill's kids and grandkids, as well as others of Blaine's grand and great-grand kids were there. We got to listen to a recording of Blaine playing the trumpet and speaking. Bill taught a lesson about being a good father (and reminded me of Blaine in his demeaner and message).
Then Bill's daughter, Cristina, announced that they were going to host a yard sale to help raise money for our adoption. We got to tell about Ruslan and Nastia and the events and experiences that led us to pursue their adoption.
Cristina just sent a considerable check in the mail from their sale.
Blaine is still affecting our lives through his posterity. God bless the day we met him.
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