When I was growing up it was easy to take advantage of my family. When you're little you don't realize how very much they do to make you healthy and happy, and when you're a little older they can seem to be an annoyance. All you notice is what they tell you that you can't do, instead of how much they want what is best for you. Now that I am older, I realize my two amazing grandparents are my greatest blessing.

My grandparents, Jim and Judy, are some of the biggest supporters in my life. When I was little there was no toy too expensive for my Pap to buy me, and there was no time too inconvenient for my grandma to make me some buttered toast or cup of tea. They did everything they possibly could to make me the happiest and luckiest grandchild out there.

They often spent long periods of time with me as my parents traveled for work or parts of the summer. With all honesty, sometimes they got on my nerves. My grandma saw right through my "stomach ache" when I didn't want to go to school. My Pap always made sure I didn't eat too much junk food and sang this obnoxious "school days, school days, good old golden rules day..." song when I wouldn't get up for school.

That being said, I did not value them enough in those moments. Now that I am in college I try to value every possible part and moment with them because I understand I do not get them forever. I have made it a habit to call them once a week. At first, it was just something nice I thought I could do, but it has grown into the highlight of my day and often my week.

I love to hear about all the crazy events in their lives and their various clubs or social groups. They make me laugh and I always want to tell them all about what is going on in my crazy college life. My Pap always thanks me for calling them and that he really appreciates it. He fails to realize it is just as much a great thing for me as it is for them, it makes a little more room for love and joy in my heart.

I am so grateful that I have gotten so much time with my grandparents. I have heard amazing stories about growing up in a mining family, being in the navy, going to optometry school, and raising a family from my Pap. I have been able to be at my Grandma's bedside as she powered through several major surgeries, and hear stories about growing up in a large family. I have gotten to hug them after my high school performances and graduation as they gave me flowers and endless love.

I am blessed to have a cup of tea with my grandma and hear her talk on and on about the bridge club or her girl's group. I no longer mind showing my Pap how to text yet again. I am so glad I get to learn about all they have been through in the eighty-five years they have been on this Earth. I am graced by their strength through all life's challenges of sickness, loss and turmoil.

Family is so important. If you still have grandparents or family members you don't talk to much, call them. I guarantee they have millions of memories and stories to tell you about their lives and mounds of wisdom to share. Make sure you value all you have because nothing lasts forever.

I love you Grandma and Pap, and I can't wait to see you.

XOXO, Meghan

"A grandparent is a little bit parent, a little bit teacher, and a little bit best friend" -Unknown