Dear Grandma and Grandpa,

I can feel my chest tighten as I start typing out this letter. I still remember the day when you left this world like it was yesterday. My heart yearns to hear your voice one last time, your handwriting is still etched in my brain, and I can feel your strong and delicate grips on my hands. You were taken away from me before I could even begin my journey to becoming the woman who I am today. I carry your values and ideals with me everyday in hope that I can grow and become half of the person who you were.

When you passed away, I couldn't help but think that you wouldn't get to watch me grow. You wouldn't be able to give me advice about my next step, you wouldn't be able to watch me cross that stage, and, most importantly, I wouldn't be able to hear you tell me how proud you were.

As I prepare to walk across that stage, I want you to know that high school was not always easy. I experienced some of the lowest of the lows and some of the highest of the highs. During my freshman year, I was in denial. I tried to cover up who I really was and who you taught me to be. During my sophomore year, I started to investigate my faith and keep it a priority. You both taught me that I had better be in that pew come Sunday at 10:30 a.m. My junior year was when things really started to change. I started becoming a leader. Ever since then, I have been a leader on multiple retreats. I can't help but think about how you would react if I were able to pick up the phone and tell you about it. During my senior year, I finally fell in love with myself and figured out how to expand my family, just as you had an endless one.

As I start crossing the bridge to college, I am thankful that Grandma taught me how to cook without measuring as I will have my own kitchen next year. I am thankful that Grandpa taught me how to pick the right boys, as I could never leave without giving him a kiss first. I am thankful that Grandma taught me how to garden, so I can have my own. I am thankful that Grandpa was a dedicated worker, as I hope to be one as well. I am thankful that I watched Grandma cradle countless babies in her arms, as I will be a mother someday. I am thankful that Grandpa taught me how to dance, as, one day, I will dance at my own wedding. Most importantly, I am thankful that you both taught me to love, for a family is never too small. There is always room at the farm.

When I receive my diploma, I won't forget and I will hold onto my Grandma's bear clothes with Grandpa's hat and say my nightly prayers. I will whisper "I love you," because I know that you are always watching.

Love,

Your granddaughter, Madison