Dear Grandma,

I never really thought about what it would be like when you were no longer here. Now here I am, being forced to think about it because that’s what it has come to. There’s so many things I wish I could tell you. So many things I wish we could laugh about together. You were my favorite person to laugh with, because you were always the cause of it, even if that wasn't your initial intention. The things you said were some of the funniest, most truthful things I've ever heard in my life. With you, there was no filter. What you thought and felt was heard and you didn't seem to care if you were offending anyone. That was one of my favorite things about you, and also one of the attributes I hope to develop from you as my life goes on. At family gatherings, you were the life of the party. You talked to everyone and entertained everyone like it was your job, but you didn't seem to mind one bit. You were one of those people who other people loved being around. Your lively attitude was contagious and so many people admired you because of it.

It’s safe to say that I miss you, my siblings miss you, my cousins miss you, because you were our Grandmother. That figure in our life that we always looked forward to seeing. When we knew we were going to be seeing you, we couldn't wait for your hugs and kisses. You always looked at us as if we were the most beautiful of God’s children. You made us feel so special. We always knew that if we had problems, we could come to you and you would give us the best advice, and without a doubt have something hilarious to say to cheer us up.

If I could have one more conversation with you, I would make sure to thank you. I would thank you for teaching me how to love life through your example. I would thank you for showing me the importance of family and how great it feels to be surrounded by the people you love. I would thank you for raising my mom to love me as much as you loved her. And lastly, I would thank you for being my grandma, because I couldn't have asked for a better one.

I miss you more and more every single day. I love you so much.

Love,

Your Granddaughter

RIP Dee Dee, 1/9/2016