Dear Mammaw,
As you know, the older someone gets, the smarter someone gets, and the more that someone does, the more likely they are to move away, to grow apart from the family, and to not do the things that they use to do. This includes coming over often, going out, or even phone calls. Luckily, you live just across town, so it isn't hard to get in touch with you whenever I need to or whenever I just want to say hello.
You are probably one of the biggest influences in my life, and I am not joking about it. I have a lot of amazing women in my life, and I am forever grateful for them, but you, by far, are one of the greatest (your daughter is my absolute biggest influence, but that isn't without your help, of course). You are a woman of God, and when I think about my own faith and how I profess it, and how I stay involved with my faith, I think of you.
You grew up in a generation that always provided. I think that that is your best trait, and you've taught the skill and virtue of providing to Mom, which has come down to me by default. You feel bad when you haven't been to the grocery store ahead of the time whenever I'm coming over. While I think it's silly sometimes, and I tell you that it's okay that you didn't go to the store, I really see the love you want to show and the food you want to provide.
Yours was a generation of patience and a generation of sticking together. You have taught me how to have the patience to not only stick with whatever I've committed but to also let things go when I need to. Although I am still struggling with being patient, I am learning more and more every day because of the example you have set for me.
I hope that every grandchild who has a grandmother sees theirs like I see you: a godly woman, and though you are not perfect, you strive to be the best version of yourself you can. If that is a loving, caring woman, who would give up her bed if a grandchild was over, then so be it. I see you as not only a grandmother but as a friend and role model. You never cease to make me feel loved and important, even if I've had a bad day.
If you ever need me for any reason, or if you just wanna kidnap me and take me wherever you wanna go, I'm only a phone call away. If you ever need company, I will be your company. If you ever get to the point where the choice is either between taking you to a nursing home or having someone live with you, I will do whatever I can to prevent the former. After everything you have done for me, that is the least of what I can do for you as your granddaughter.
I love you, Mammaw, and though I know you won't read this, I know that you already know that.
All the love,
Your granddaughter.