Thanksgiving has come and passed, but the third Thursday of each November should not be the only day we show our appreciation and our gratitude to the ones we love the most. As the remainder of the holiday season continues to warm each of our hearts, it is important to look beyond the parties and the presents that come our way. In the midst of enjoying these special times, we must not place the material objects at the forefronts of our minds. Instead, we must share in these moments with the special people in our lives, and celebrate them in the process.

For me, this special person has always been my Papa Carl, and will continue to be for the rest of my life. Since I was a child, my friendship with my grandfather is one that has remained consistent in my greatest of moments and my toughest of times. In a similar sense, not only has it remained consistent, but it has grown into a beautiful lifetime of memories that I hold ever so close to my heart. From celebrating the holidays together, to planning family dinners or simply sitting down at his favorite restaurant for a strong cup of coffee and a great conversation, he and I have developed a lasting bond that I know can never be broken.

My Papa is one of the strongest, most hard-working people I have encountered in my life. He displays an attitude of integrity and independence that I admire endlessly. From his exemplary career as a carpenter to his loving role as a husband, father and grandfather, his strength continuously inspires me to be the best person that I can. As his only grandchild, I strive to make him proud in all that I do and all that I become.

Papa, I love you dearly, and I am so proud to call you my grandfather. I am grateful for your presence not only in this time of thanksgiving and celebration, but within every day of my life.