grandpa
i have never been any good at goodbyes. i always throw in an extra “see you later” or “give me a call” to make everything seem less final. and that’s why it’s so hard for me to think of this as my final goodbye.

i wanted so badly to be able to be there. i know it was hard for you these past few months. and i hope it’s better where you are now.

i wish i could have told you how much you mean to me. how much i looked forward to every summer you spent in california with us.

i loved your ability to make friends with anyone.. anywhere.. how you could speak and read a million different languages. and how it made me wish i could too.

i loved your love for stamps. and how you would share them with me. and now i have shelves of beautiful stamp books too.. compiled from your visits to california.

i wish i could have heard more of your stories. a life of accomplishments. hands down.

i loved your independence and ease. your passion. your intelligence. all things i dream of grandpas being. all things you shared with me. all things i dream of having.

i love you grandpa. and i will forever miss you.