My Dear Grandma B,

I miss you. Our last visit you told me not to be sad, that you were going to your honeymoon in paradise. I know that you are happy to be reunited with your husband, whom you have been separated from for over three decades. But I am still sad that you are not here. I will miss our card games. I will miss our long talks. I will miss you singing to me and to my babies when we leave. I will miss your snort at the end of your laugh and the way you put salt on everything- including watermelon. I will miss you blessing the food before we eat.

Even though we are of different faiths, I will always respect how dedicated you are to yours.You left this world with dignity and on your own terms. Despite never claiming it yourself, you are a strong woman Grandma B. Your daughters and granddaughters are a testament to that.

Your celebration was beautiful, just like you planned it. Enjoy your honeymoon in paradise, but please forgive me the tears I shed for your departure. I selfishly thought you would live forever-the same way you thought I would always stay little. We grow up, we die. But you will not be forgotten. I will cherish all the wonderful lessons you taught me. I will laugh when one of my boys turns the sprinkler on in my face (*wink*). I will put my family first. I love you... a bushel and a peck.

Your loving granddaughter,
Rachel