For those of us who are lucky enough to get to know our grandparents, we should count ourselves as extremely blessed. I cannot begin to imagine a world without relationships with mine, and for that, I am immensely lucky.

So many memories, from the beach to fourth of July parades, to nice dinners, to Christmas night, make me even more thankful to have support beyond just my immediate family, pushing me and loving me all the way.

When my grandfather had a stroke this year, it opened my eyes. We don’t know how much time we have left with anyone, and that means even the people that we love the most.

For me, a few of these very special people are my grandparents.

At a Christmas party, my other, healthy grandfather was talking to me about the stroke and he said something that really stuck with me, something along the lines of “you have to spend times with the ones you love while you have the chance.” He may not remember even saying it, but just that simple message resonated with me and should resonate with all of us. It’s so important to show those that we love how much we care while we have the time.

I am thankful to have someone like my grandmother who I nicknamed Meme, who will text me a sweet text telling me that she’s proud of me, always encourage me, go shopping with me anytime, and is always up for a yummy breakfast.

I am thankful for my grandfather, who I call Gaga, who gives great advice and great hugs and is always there to greet me with a smile on his face. I am thankful for my Grammy and our lunches and talks and long walks on the beach.

I am thankful for my grandpa Bussie and his willingness to always listen and be a friend, always there to talk to.

I am thankful for the generosity of these people who have given me so much, including a life rich in love.

I am so blessed to be able to know these amazing people I call my grandparents, and I don’t want to ever take that for granted.