Year after year, my sons always chose to have birthday parties at Grandpa’s house. It was nothing special–it was a one bathroom, two bedroom run-down home. We had enough yard to run around, set up an inflatable, tables and chairs, usually outside because the living room was so small.

The memories of my dad, their grandpa, pulling at the pinata string in order for them to hit and miss the pinata … Everyone that attended was usually family or lifetime friends. It was always special to bring new people to meet my father and the rest of the family. We pretty much celebrated every birthday at his house. He welcomed anyone with open arms.