You have been a constant in my life from the moment I was born. Seriously, there’s a picture of you holding me like an hour after I entered the world. I have the honor of being your first grandchild and the first girl since you and your own sisters. We share a bond that's stronger than most, and I couldn't be more proud to be your granddaughter.

You were there for me when I was learning to walk; you fed me cheerios and pieces of deli cheese when I was at your house. You’ve nurtured my rebellious soul and somehow tamed the best of my attitude. You’ve helped me through the biggest challenges and joys of my life so far. Now I want to say thank you.

Thank you for the being the person I can call at any time of the day or night. Thank you for always picking me up and taking me shopping and for our Dunkin' Donuts dates that are essential to any trip we take. Thank you for all of the talks we’ve had, whether they are just talking about our days or the inner workings of my crazy mind. Thank you for mending my heart when it has been broken, thank you for teaching me the most important lessons in life; how I should know my prayers better than the songs on the radio and how “self-praise is no praise.”

Thank you for teaching me how to sew and knit. You taught me how important family is, no matter how crazy or dysfunctional we may be. Most importantly, I’ve learned how it’s never too late to return something to the store, no matter how long it has been in the bag. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to see the beautiful country you call home. From you, I’ve learned how to be a mother, a friend, a sister, a wife and an employee. I’m lucky enough to have learned from the very best. Your spirit teaches me every day never to give up and to work hard for what I want.

I love being the person you ask to pick out new glasses with, or to gossip about everyone we know with. Every day I try to make you proud and I hope I have succeeded somewhat, even if you tell me I act like a five-year-old at church. I’m so grateful for all the time we’ve spent together and for all of the time we will spend together.

Without you, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. From you, I've inherited perseverance, practicality, faith, and love. I know you aren't one to say "I love you" very often, and as you know neither am I, but today I am going to say, "I love you, grandma." Having a grandmother is a biological phenomenon that can’t be avoided, but having a grandmother who is also your best friend is a blessing.