Sometimes when I sit back and really think about it, it amazes me that I am in college, and will soon be starting the next part of my life by going into the real world. This often causes me to reminisce on my childhood, remembering the times when life was simple with no responsibilities. We always take the time to thank our parents for all that they did for us growing up, but there are a few other people that are often forgotten about during this time: our grandparents.

Our grandparents were our number-one fans from day one. They visited us the moment we appeared on this earth, some even flying thousands of miles just to see our tiny little faces. They bought us countless numbers of presents, and never forgot to bring us back a souvenir when they went on vacation. Our pictures hang on their fridges, and are scattered around their houses in decorative frames.

They cherished the handmade gifts we made for them, and probably still have them in a drawer somewhere today. They always offered to watch us while our parents when on a date night, and never thought of it as an obligation, but as a special time to spend with their grandchildren. They baked us yummy treats, and always snuck us an extra cookie when our parents said “only one.”

Our grandparents were always there for us, offering advice when we became teenagers and argued with our parents. They attended our important school functions, and cheered us on from the sidelines at games. When it came time to choose a college, they were there to ask the questions we didn’t think of, and supported us no matter the end decision.

One thing that we often forget is that, as we grow older, so do they. Time passes so much faster than we realize, and we don’t know what the future holds for either our grandparents or ourselves. So take this time to say thank you. Thank you for all of the memories you have given us, and for the advice we didn’t know we needed. Thank you for the presents and the cookies, and for always wanting to spend time with us.

Thank you for standing by my side as I figure out who I want to be in this world, and for being someone I can look up to. You are one of my biggest role models, for you have accomplished so much in this life that it is amazing. You have overcome tremendous difficulties, yet still stand strong. You have inspired me in more ways than you probably realize, and I am so incredibly thankful to be able to call you my grandparents.

Thank you for all that you have done!