You were there for me when no one else was. You taught me what was right and what was wrong, how to love God and love myself. You taught me how to see past everything bad and see the best in people. But most importantly, you made me the person I am today.
I remember all of the times you picked up the phone in times of terror for me. I would be scared while my parents fought and I needed some type of comfort. I would call you up in tears and you didn’t care what time it was, you always calmed me down and picked me up when necessary. You saw me at my worst and at my best. You were there for every show, every performance; you were there for everything. You cheered me on and cheered me up. You were, and still are, my cheerleader and my rock.
I never had it easy growing up, and you knew that. I sought refuge in a place where there was no anger, no pain, and no worries. You gave me that safe haven. I can remember all of the weekends staying over your house, going out to dinner with you and Grandpa, going to church at 4:30 on Saturday afternoons, and eating midnight snacks with Grandpa while we played 31.
I remember all the times you and Grammy took me to the mall and when you finally showed me that Kohl’s had dressing rooms and I thought I had seen the promised land. I remember you teaching me how to get the best bargain, a skill I still use and always will. I remember all of the trips to the park, to Citgo to get ice cream, all the bike rides and walks around the block, and all of the valuable lessons you’ve taught me.
I remember the Thanksgivings full of family and card games. I remember the Christmases putting together the nativity scene in the manger, creating the Christmas village on your shelves, and your little tree that I loved decorating. I remember all the birthday parties at your house and my 16th birthday pool party where you let my friends invade your house, because you wanted me to have a good birthday for the first time in a long time.
You took care of me when I needed you most. You were always there for me when I needed a shoulder to cry on or a hug and kiss. You were there for me when my birthdays fell to pieces and you were there when I fell to pieces. You were there through every tough encounter I faced in my life and you stood by my side through it all.
You give me unconditional love, unlimited hugs, memories, and lessons that I will forever hold in my heart and cherish. I know things haven’t been easy since Grammy and Grandpa passed. I know you’ve been sad. I just want to tell you thank you and I love you. For 18 years you took care of me and picked me up when I fell down. Now it’s my turn to do that for you.
