I'm sorry I took so long. I lost my way an' thought I'd never find it again... An' now me legs are so weary, I can barely take another step. Are your legs hurtin', Granddad? 'Cos we've got a medicine man in the town who can cure just about anythin'. Is that right, lad? Mayhap I'll pay him a visit, then. Then you an' me can play. Right, Granddad? Aye. That sounds grand.
Now mayhap I can keep up with me grandson again, hohoho...
As for why his wife wasn't helping him this time, well, here you go. I'm surprised he was traveling for an entire year without somehow dying, given how bad his sense of direction seems to be.
At least the ending is pleasant and happy. Glad everything worked out!