Dear Mom,

You are the best mother in the world. I know people always say that about their own moms, but it really is true, and I know where you got it from. You are strong, loving, kind, and faithful, just like your mother was. When we lost her, I was lost, and that made me think about how you must feel. I lost my grandma, but you lost your mom; you lost the woman who raised you, loved you unconditionally, and always saw you as her little girl. I can’t imagine losing you, Mom. I know that I will some day, and I also already know that it will be one of the worst days of my life, but it will never cancel out the best days of my life that have and will be with you. As I celebrate you on Mother’s Day, I will also celebrate Grandma Jo, for you would not be who you are without her, and neither would I. She changed my life, and you continue to change my life everyday.

On Mother’s Day, I want you to celebrate your mom, but I also want you to know that you don’t have to be strong all the time. It’s okay to feel sad, and it’s okay to cry. Just like Grandma Jo, you have always been the one who steps up and takes care of everybody else. For once, I am going to be the one taking care of you; I will be strong for you because you have always been strong for me. Spend this day smiling about the silly things Grandma Jo always said, reminiscing on the holidays of laughter and love, and maybe watch one of Grandma Jo's favorite soap operas in honor of her. Family was everything to Grandma Jo, and I know that the best way to remember her is by loving and appreciating family. I love you, Mom, and I know that Grandma Jo was nothing but proud of the woman that you have become.

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. Happy Mother’s Day, Grandma Jo.

Love,

Gracie Jo