The birth of their son Sean was a memorable event for all - at 10 thousand feet in Leadville. The first grandchild for Elaine's side of the family. Gordon was a proud grandparent.
I met Sean when he was one week old. Elaine let me hold the precious bundle, and he continued sleeping. "That's funny", Elaine commented "you are the first person to hold him (other than Don & her)and he didn't cry or fuss." Advantage of being sisters I knew. :-)
Across the miles watching Sean grow up has been snapshots via email, yet the times we were together in person are so memorable. I had the chance to visit several times when the Hayes lived in Salida and Bayfield. The last time was was Christmas 2000. Sean was four and full of energy.
In the Spring of 2002 he came to Lodi, CA to pick up Elaine's dad after his stroke and take him back to Colorado. Grandpa was hesitant about going and wondered why he should go to Colorado and Sean simply said "Grandpa, because we love you."
This last time I saw Sean in person I got to see the handsome, young man that he has grown-up to be - I mean up - he is 6'1" and not yet 15! We were together through the last days of Elaine's presence on earth. He has so many of her characters and mannerisms in him - a joy to be with.
Pictures
Sean at AKC
Sean QB at Delta CO
Sean QB at White River HS
Sean April 2011 on the porch at Buckley home
Sean - Mother's Day Weekend 2011 - Elaine's Special Gift
Sean and Aunt Carol 07/13/11 in a Tacoma Park near St. Joseph's Hospital