Dear Granny,

Without fail, every week that you see an article of mine post onto Facebook, you always text me to tell me just how much you loved reading it or how it brought a tear to your eye. So this week, I decided it was time to dedicate an article to you! Since I was a tiny girl, you have been such an important person in my life. Many people are not fortunate enough to be so close to a grandparent; to grow up seeing them every day or to have so many fond memories with them. I am one of the lucky ones who can honestly say my granny is one of my best friends. From the toddler years all the way to my twenties. From singing along to Barney the Dinosaur, "There's a Hole in the Bucket", and a "Busted" album that was played on repeat. From counting the cherry blossom trees back and forth in the car, to counting down the days until you and grandad land in America to come and visit. Granny, I am so thankful to have someone like you in my life.

We don't see each other every day anymore. What a big change from when I was young. Granny, you were by far one of the hardest people to say goodbye to when we moved. I could not wrap my head around the fact that I wouldn't be able to stop by for a cup of tea at your house whenever I wanted to, that Christmas dinner wouldn't be around your table anymore, or that I wouldn't come home from school to see your car outside our house. I cried a lot, and I know you did too, so did mam and dad and the boys. But almost 6 years have gone by and I've learned that you're only a text or a FaceTime call away. And while we are not together in person, I still love you and miss you every day. I still think that you are one of the strongest and most influential people I know. With everything you've been through the past few years, through all of the toughest times, you never stopped setting goals and pushing yourself to the limits to reach them all. When there were setbacks and obstacles or it seemed like that goal was too far away, you had the strength in you to keep on trying. (And we all get a laugh out of your home exercises now). Granny you truly are an inspiration to our entire family!

Lots of love, Lorna