Today in Grand Rapids

Friday when my mom, sisters and I left the Meijer Gardens, we took a detour to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport to see the entrance draped in black bunting to honor President Ford.

Carol took a great picture of it.

I'm presently listening to the local news as Grand Rapids awaits the arrival of her 'favorite son'.

Just an hour or so ago, I could hear the rumble of the military jets as they ran a practice fly-over.

Jerry Ford was truly a household name when I grew up. We took hot food out of the

oven using "Jerry Ford for Congress" hot pads. Those were the days when congressman still went door to door to shake hands with their constituents.

Today, if you were to go door to door in Grand Rapids, I doubt that you could find a soul here with a word to say against the man. He will always be well loved here.

My aunt used to work at one of Grand Rapids' major department stores. She once sold a pair of pajamas to him. He was just a regular sort of man.

Today I was supposed to pick up all of my parents prescriptions from their doctor's office. THAT won't be happening today! So many streets in the city are closed I would not be able to get there from here.

A small price to pay.

Signs are appearing locally that say Gerald "OUR" Ford.

In Grand Rapids, that is how he has always been.