With the holidays rapidly approaching, I can't shake the upset-stomach feeling I get when I realize that you are no longer here with us. Whether a year passes, two years pass, or twenty years pass, your absence will always be noticeable. My heart aches when I think about the milestones you haven't been here for. I am constantly reminded that you are no longer here every time I instinctively pick up the phone to give you a call.

The holidays are particularly difficult for us down here. I see the sorrow in the faces of our family as they open presents, remembering that there isn't one with a card from you attached. The Christmas cookies we make taste a little bit different without you here. There is always a underlying sense of sorrow, hiding behind our laughter and forced smiled. Although we may not mention it out loud, we all know what's missing and that's you. It breaks my heart to see an empty seat where you once sat.

Despite the grief and sorrow I have felt since we said our Earthly good-byes to you, I cannot help but feel lucky for your involvement in my life. Your love, kindness, and support has helped me become the person I am today. Without you, I would be living a very different life than I am now.

I just want to say thank you. Thank you for the memories we were able to make together, thank you for the traditions you created. Thank you for the morals and values that you have instilled in myself and our family.

I hope that everyone can have someone in their life as loving, kind, and strong as you. Every person needs someone who can challenge them to be the best version of themselves. You inspired me to move towards my dreams and goals and for that, I am eternally grateful.

So, Merry Christmas up there. I hope all is well. We're missing you down here and although my heart aches for you every second of every day, I know you're smiling down on the beautiful, crazy legacy that you have created. I love you and I miss you. Christmas is different without your extra set of hands.