To my four loving grandparents,

Thank you for being there for me through the good times and the hard times. I am so thankful to call you my grandparents and tell everyone how lucky I am to have all four of you as a big part of my life. Not often do many kids get to say that they have both sets of their grandparents still in their lives. I am one of those who can, and for that, I am so blessed. For almost 20 years of my life, I have been blessed with both sets of grandparents in my life. I am so fortunate.

1. For all those times you came out to support me

Whether it was at a volleyball game where I was benched for the whole time (as it was not my specialty), or a dance competition in which a dance (which I helped choreograph) was performed by me and teammates, you never let me down. I always knew that if I looked out in the crowd, I would see your four faces smiling back at me and being my biggest fans.

2. For all the times you are there when I am upset

Whether it is a fight with my parents or a hard time with a significant other, you are always there for me. You are there to give me advice, provide me with a shoulder to cry on, and listen.

3. For all the times I get to have a day out with you

I feel like a princess, being the focus of the whole day. Going shopping, getting lunch and going to a movie, there never is a disappointment and there is always fun to be made.

4. For all the family dinners I am blessed to get to have with you

Every Sunday, eating delicious food and having awesome conversation with you never failed to make my week and brighten up my day. It is a blessing to have two families come together, as one from my mom’s side and one from my dad’s side. Such a rare and beautiful thing.

5. For the Facetimes while I am away at college

I miss you guys an insane amount, so when I get to call you over Facetime and see your smiling faces, I gleam with happiness. It never ceases to make me smile when I see you guys glowing with excitement as you realize you can see me AND talk to me at the same time (thanks to the wonderful technology nowadays).

6. For all the wonderful vacations we get to go on.

I am so thankful I have the privilege to spend time with you in different places, whether it is Florida, Mexico or on a cruise. It is a blessing to be able to travel with you and enjoy the beautiful weather and fun activities the place has to offer.

7. For all the values you have taught me.

Spending so much precious time with you four made me learn many things. I learned how family is such a big part of my life, as I would be lost without it. You helped shape who am I today as a person. I learned from you to have strength in hard times, become involved with something I love, work hard as good things will come from it, and that family will always be there, no matter what circumstances. You also have taught me that kindness will get you many places in life and rudeness will get you nowhere.

8. For all the holidays well spent.

Each year as holidays come around, I look forward to the delicious food you provide me with, whether it is deep dish Lou Malnati’s pizza, home cooked briscuit, or yummy fresh fruit.

9. For being involved in my life.

Attending my dance recitals, poms competitions and sport games, you guys never missed out on anything that I was involved in when you didn’t have to. You also have come to know so many of my close friends and treat them as if they are part of the family also, welcoming them into your homes and inviting them to family events. Always making sure to come to pictures and send me off before a highschool dance never failed to show how much I meant to you guys, as well as how much you mean to me.

10. For being yourselves.

I could not imagine my life without you guys. Thank you for always being here for me. Love you forever and always.