ACT Blog

My Children & Grandchildren Remember…

What is a good anniversary gift for a couple celebrating 55 years of marriage- -to each other.

They’re at an age where they want to get rid of “stuff.” Clothing? Have enough. Trip? Been there. And they’re at an age where candy and cookies are verboten.

My daughter Nan had an idea, “Put memories into writing.”

So, for the 55^th anniversary of my wife and I, she had our children and grandchildren compose recollections of their father/grandfather, mom/bubby.

The result was an anniversary “feel good” gift. And a bonus of longevity for their memories.

The entries came in the form of e-mails (naturally.) They were compiled by Nan into a pamphlet entitled:

“A Few Thoughts From The People That Love You!!!!!”

Here are some excerpts.

Son, Bob, a nationally known Harvard University trained Urologist.

“My favorite story about mom was when I was in high school. She, a friend and I were having lunch at a neighborhood delicatessen. One of my buddies from Lower Merion High School sat down and started talking to mom. At the time she had her hair in ponytail.

“She looked incredibly cute. And this schoolmate started to come on to mom, trying to pick her up!

“Mom, looking younger than her age, innocently kept up pleasantries with this over- androgenized high school boy, never realizing his intent.

“I have to admit he had great taste in women J.”

 _________

“Many fond memories of Saturday mornings in my dad’s advertising office on Broad Street, then going to Connie Mack Stadium to watch the Phillies or to Franklin Field.

“Also, driving to the Jersey shore for a weekend (without a hotel/motel reservation) and listening to him finagle a room for the family!

“Among my most proud moments were when he was program chairman and master of ceremonies at the Golden Slipper Club, a philanthropic Masonic group, for events that he had personally organized.

“It was pretty neat to see my dad speaking from the dais. He introduced three First Ladies of the U.S. (at different functions,) sports stars, authors, etc. The programs were all put together by him. Impressive stuff!

“Finally, when I was sports editor of Harriton’s school newspaper, “The Free Forum,” dad took out an ad for American Advertising Services. The ad was basically his business card. But he altered it just a bit.

“Under his name “Joseph H. Ball, President,” he added “Robert A. Ball, Son.”

                    _________

Daughter, Nanelle, a wife and mom to three, and caretaker of her family’s protective dog.

“You have shown us, (your family) what love and family is all about. You have given us traditions, values and morals.

“My children would not be as special as they are without having you in their lives. The two of you are the best grandparents. You have given so much love and experiences which we will have for the rest of our lives.

“Holiday dinners at family tables, summers at the beach, and the trips we have taken as a family group.

“The two of you have instilled the importance of family!”

                    ____________

Rob, our only son-in-law and principal in his own business, Center Stage Tickets, Bala Cynwyd.

“The first thing I want to say to Sandy and Joe is thank you for having Nan!

“I can still remember going to the Ball house while I was dating Nan. I would enter through the front door- -which nobody else uses- – and engage in conversation with Sandy and Joe.

“Joe was always on the corner of the couch, just as he is today, often in the same bathrobe. I thought to myself how lucky I would be if one day I could become part of this family.

Well I was right about that.”

                    _________

Daughter Yelane, mom of three, employed at three different jobs, social dynamo, everyone’s pal.

“My absolute favorite times are summers at the shore.

Riding bikes, walking the boards. My “Pavilion Pals”.

“There’s been ups there’s been downs. There’s also been tears- -and much laughter.

“Best wishes to you both: The best parents one could ever wish for.”

                        _________

Grandson, Eric, a Florida resident, friend to computers and a Fantasy Football super-star winner.

“HEY! Bubby and Pop Pop Joe Ball (though I haven’t called you that since I was 8-years-old.)

“You are among the best grandparents any kid could ask for. I am 21 now and it seems like life is going by so fast.

“I remember visits to your home and looking forward to more of the cold glasses of chocolate milk and Cream of Wheat breakfasts. Pop Joe would sit across from me asking me what I learned in history class.

“Even if I had no idea I would just make something up and bubby would agree.

“I remember the days when you would pick me up at my house, drive to Hymie’s delicatessen where we would sit and talk about who knows what. I always left the meal with a feeling of comfort knowing that if anything were to happen that I’d always have family to help me out and I could talk to you guys about anything.

“Now I’ll say a little bit more about Pop Joe…

“He’s taught me so many things that my dad or any other male figure in my life has never even tried to mention before.

“First of all, probably since I was 6 or 7 years old, I’ve been told by Pop Joe to have a very strong handshake.

“People look at me, and I’m not a huge guy. But shake my hand and they know there is no wimp inside this fellow.

“I also learned from you to laugh. It’s good.

“You also taught me to “look the part;” you say dress for the job.

“You have taught me well.”

                _________

Madison (“Maddie”) Ball, soon to be a Northwestern University freshman, and a budding TV and Film producer.

“My favorite memory of Pop Joe started the way some of my least favorite memories of Pop Joe start- -with a vigorous questioning period.

“If you’ve ever been lucky enough to experience Pop Joe, you’ll know what I’m referring to.

“Example: Bubby had placed a bowl of large cool grapes on the table, and I was making myself a bowl of honey nut cheerios with milk when he joined me.

“I can’t say where he came from. Work? Slumber? His usual spot on the couch?

“But he was there, alert and ready to unleash a flood of questions. With no possible escape I answered them with as few words as possible.

“After what seemed like an investigation, like what are my favorite classes and where do I want to go to college, Pop Joe thought I should ask questions, about him.

“He lead me to a framed newspaper clipping with a picture of a handsome young Army soldier holding a rifle.

“There, he gave me a glimpse into his youth.

“This memory may not be the most significant to Pop Joe, but for me, it gave me perspective on the man that consistently dogs me with questions.”

                _________

Emylie Rosenbaum, University of Delaware Junior, among most pleasant and popular coeds on campus. Medical field in future?

“Bubby and Pop Joe have given me the best memories by just being involved in my life as much as possible and being the best role models.

“Bubby is one of the greatest people on the face of this Earth. She is the rock that holds our family together. She would do anything in the world just for our family’s health and happiness.

“From her incredible sweet and sour meatball recipe (that she still won’t give me!) to those nights down the shore eating at Gino’s and playing Rummikub.

“She has started so many traditions in our family. A few that come to mind are the pearl necklaces for her granddaughters starting at age 6, and adding more pearls as the years go on. Another is the trip to Disney World when her grandchildren turn five.

“She is the most selfless person I have ever met. She is my role model not only as a grandmother, but also as a mother, wife, and an all-together person.

“The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Pop Joe is that I better study the last 300 years of history before I go see him.

“No comment on his pranks like hiding food at the dinner table.

“However, despite his goofy side, I look up to him so much. Even at 83-years-old, he is still working!

“Also to mention that he gives out tickets to sports events, museum and exhibit places and…and… gift certificates to some of the most delicious restaurants.

“Also, almost everywhere we go together people know who he is.

“If I were to tell someone I was Joe Ball’s granddaughter, they have good words to say about him. He has directly and indirectly influenced my life.”

                _________

Max Meyers, Harrington High School class of 2014, National Honor Society electee, multiple sports letter man, budding magician- -and good guy.

“Together Bubby and Pop Joe are the best grandparents anyone could ask for. They make a dynamic combo.

“From the summers at the shore, and countless family dinners, they have had a large impact on my life.

“My favorite recent vacation with the family was this past year’s trip to the Caribbean. What to do if I needed a place to put my stuff by the pool and no one to watch over it? Bubby and Pop Joe were there as watchdogs.

“Who was there to take food off my plate when I wasn’t looking (even if I wasn’t done?) Pop Joe! (Editor’s Note: Max watches his sugar intake. I help.)

“Who was there when I needed someone to talk to about U.S. history? Pop Joe! However, he rarely could stump me with his history knowledge and questions.

“While not everyone knows how Sandy ended up with Joe, everyone knows she is the best grand-mom anyone could ever have. She is always happy and doesn’t look a day over 25!

“A talent she has is being able to talk on the phone FOREVER. Even when you thought the conversation would have ended she can keep it going!”

                _________

Griffin Ball, student at Madeira High School, McLean, VA, a sweet, sweet individual.

“Whenever I think of Pop Joe I think of bacon pizza. When I visited a few years back from our home in McLean, VA we got bacon pizza for lunch and it was soo delicious! I had never thought about bacon pizza before!

“My favorite memory, maybe even of all time, was going to Disney World with Bubby for my 5th birthday!

“I remember seeing the parade and fireworks at the Magic Kingdom at night, getting stuck in the attic of the Haunted Mansion and eating at the 50’s family diner at Hollywood Studios. It was the most memorable birthday and I am thankful to Bubby for taking me!”

    _________

 Eriya Rosenbaum, Lower Merion High School Sophomore, long, long red hair, gorgeous eyes, a top athlete.

“One memory with Bubby and Pop Joe is when we were down the shore and someone came to the door and said that Bubby tripped and fell down outside.

“I called to Pop Joe who was inside the house we were renting. “Wait,” he said, “I can’t come down I’m watching the Phillies.”

So, I went out, and helped Bubby and finally Pop Joe came down to see if he could help.”

                _________

Jessica Meyers, to be a freshman this year at Harriton High School, Mrs. Justin Bieber in waiting, her Junior High’s early AM school TV announcer, participant in school theater and sports.

“I love all the quality time Bubby and I spend together.

“My favorite times include down the shore playing rumikub. Me being the pro, I loved winning. Lol. (Laugh out loud.)

“I also love the times when Bubby and I just hang out because I really enjoy talking with her.

“I also remember the Kohl’s Department Store trips, The Duck Boat, my doctors visits, my Hospital visits, and watching DWTS.”

                ___________

“Pop Joe, I know you are here when I hear the loud, continuing barks come bursting out of our dog Gracie!

“I also enjoy how you are always popping in to our house just to check on us when the garage door is open.

“My favorite memories also are breakfast at Hymies with family.

“Pop Joe: I know you are a jokester, and always will be. I love that in you.”

                __________

Benjamin Meyers, our youngest (9). Mr. “Never Stay Still”, a farmer, a TV wrestling fanatic.

“Thank you for always inviting me to go to the Pancake House.

“Bubby, I love to have pillow fights!!!!!!

“Bubby, you are the best, and Pop Joe you are the oldest person in the family.

“Bubby, you are the oldest girl in the family.”

Note: Above has been edited for purposes of embarrassment.

                ______________

A special thanks to our bloodlines from previous generations for the excellent genes they passed on to our family.