To my amazing Grandpa,

I remember you playing soccer in your backyard with my siblings and me, letting us win every time. I remember you singing your favorite songs as I followed you around the house. I remember watching American Idol together and you rooting for your favorite contestant like you knew them personally. I remember your love for the family being absolutely unconditional. I remember you smiling in the hospital when you couldn't talk, just to to let us know you were okay - even if you weren't.

I want to thank you for being the grandparent I needed. Throughout different milestones as I grew up, you were the one I was so excited to share the news with. Whether it was something as big as making the school sports team or as small as learning how to whistle, you made every accomplishment, each up and down, just as important to you as it was to me. You constantly made me feel special and loved, celebrated my good times and gave support through the bad. You were someone who had lived so much longer than me, and your advice was invaluable.

I am reminded of your jokes, your laughter, and your favorite things often. Each time I go to a baseball game, eat your favorite food, or watch one of your shows I think of you. Some of my favorite memories were simply watching sports and eating pull-apart Twizzlers with you. My parents say they see a lot of you in me, and that is one of the best compliments I have ever received. You have shaped who I am today more than you probably realized at the time. You couldn’t be there for my high school graduation or seeing me off to college, but I wouldn’t have gotten there without you believing in me throughout my whole life.

I am incredibly lucky to have had you as long as I did because those younger than me didn't have you in their lives for long at all. My little brother remembers you, and loves the stories he's told by others, but he doesn't have the memories I do. I will forever be thankful for the time we had, because I was blessed to have you. Somehow your positive attitude never changed, even when you were sick.

I just wanted to let you know that I hope I'm making you proud. I hope you're looking down at me and beaming, the same way you did when you sat courtside at my basketball game, I told you I got straight A's, or when I learned how to whistle.

You're forever in my thoughts and heart. Love you a bushel and a peck.