One year. Three hundred and sixty-five days since I spoke to you last. Four seasons have passed. Holidays have been celebrated. I have grown as a person. I have had good days and bad. They say time heals everything, but there is still an emptiness in my heart without you here.

I miss your voice, your smile and your hugs. I miss the simple things like sitting beside you on your couch, telling you about my day. I miss you walking me to the door when I leave your house. I miss you telling me you love me.

Losing someone close to your heart is never easy. It doesn't matter the situation, the time or place. It hurts like nothing else. It feels as if a piece of you is missing and maybe there is. Times are hard at first, but life must go on. You go back to your regular routine and hope things are okay. Eventually you start to feel better, but the smallest reminder of your loved one and make your heart break all over again.

Special times for our family are so different now. Even a year later, we all find ourselves looking around waiting for you to appear. You were the center of the family, you kept us all close and taught us the value of family and love.

You shaped our family into what it is today. We are supportive, loving and are always there for one another. I know every time we get together, you are smiling down on us. Sometimes it feels as if you're still here. When I sit in your house I feel your presence and it is so comforting.

Since I lost you, I have changed and grown into a stronger version of myself. I have learned more about myself and the importance of family. I have accomplished some great things and I hope you would be proud.

Our bond was something so special and dear to my heart. I hope you knew that. I hope you know that I have thought of you every single day since you left this earth. I hope you hear my prayers when I talk to you. I hope you know how much I cherish my memories of you.

I hope you know that even when I'm happy, I miss you. I miss you on my good days and my bad. I think of you always and can't help but wonder what things are like for you now. I wonder what it felt like when you saw Heaven's gates. I wonder what it's like for you to be with your Lord. I wonder how you feel to be back with loved ones that you had missed just like I miss you.

I find comfort in knowing that for you, a wonderful year has passed. You have been running and singing with the angels. You have felt no pain and no sadness. You haven't stopped smiling. These are the things that make the hard times better.

All I can do is know that I will see you again and I cannot wait for that day.