April Fool's ... And Other Fond Memories

I used to love April Fool's Day.
One of my best memories from growing up are my memories of April Fool's Day.
The best person to play an April Fool's prank on was my Grandpa. No matter what we thought up my grandpa "fell" for it. Every. Single. Year.
I can remember building up to the big day every year. My sister and I (with the help of my parents) would come up with something wacky and wonderful to trick Grandpa. My mom reminded me yesterday about the year we decided to tell my non-animal-loving grandfather that we had gotten a dog. My mom said that she practiced with us - helped us pick a name for the dog and everything.
One time I called to tell him that I was a refrigerator repairman and he needed to check his fridge (and he did). One time I told him that there was a snowstorm. (and it was sunny)
And each time I would scream "APRIL FOOLS!"
Of course he didn't believe any of these things. But, I didn't know that. I firmly believed that I tricked my grandpa every time.
That's just the kind of person that he was.
He was the kind of grandfather who let us put barrettes in his combover.
He was the kind of grandpa who taught us how to make pinocchio noses out of maple keys.
He was the kind of grandpa who had more patience than you would think humanly possible. And he was the grandpa who had about a million stories to share. And trust me - they were long.
He passed away a few years ago. It was hard. Over time the grief from his death turned into some really great memories - memories that I cherish.
But, on April Fool's day I always think of him. And I think about his amazing capacity to love. And the way he showed that love - with his patience, and good humour, and willingness to play along.
I was lucky. I had 23 years to experience this amazing person. To learn from him and to love him.
And, now I watch my own child with my dad - his Grandpa. A lot of the time I see the same characteristics. My dad plays with Matt. He loves him. And he's patient with him. And, I'm looking forward to the April Fool's ahead of us - when Matt understands the value of a good joke. And we can call and "trick" his grandpa.
Just like I did when I was little.
So, Dad, here's your warning ... when Matthew calls you next April 1st and says something like "Guess what ... we got a puppy." Check the calendar. Let the tradition live on!

My future April Fool's Prankster with his Grandpa