To Grandma with love (I Remember)

To Grandma with love,

I know you're gone but you're always with me.
You were my hero when I was younger and you always spoiled us.
I remember running out to your car when you would come to visit just to throw my arms around you and check to see what goodies you had brought.
I remember how you always put my artwork and pictures on display no matter how horrible they were just because you loved me.
I remember how you always had an answer to my questions no matter how ridiculous they may be.
I remember wearing your make up and jumping on the bed every time we came over.
I remember how we would disobey you but you never really cared.
I remember your smile; I loved to see you smile.
I remember how you would always clasp your hands together and set them to one side of your face.
I remember how you comforted me when I was upset.
I remember sitting with you, listening to stories of your life wishing I'd had the chance to know you back then.
I remember feeling so bad for all the loss you endured yet you never once complained.
I remember how you noticed when I did something different or simply wore my hair another way.
I remember your compliments and how I would wake you up just for a goodnight kiss.
I remember you slowly fading.
I remember you in pain and the helplessness that I felt.
I remember how in the back of my mind I knew you thought your time was overdue.
I remember when I would take care of you, instead of the other way around.
I remember you forgetting a lot, at a loss for words, and knowing that time grew shorter.
I remember when you left and the state that you were in.
I remember the last time I saw you and the look of recognition in your eyes said more than you were able to.
I said I'd come visit again, and never actually did.
I am so sorry but I know you've forgiven me.
I know you're gone but you're always with me.
Each day that I live, you live in my heart.
I miss you so much, but all I can do is be happy that you're finally at rest with God, and I pray that we will be together again forever some day.
I love you now, forever, and every day in between.
~*~ Rachael ~*~

I wrote this letter for my grandmother who passed away December 23, 2004. She lived with me for eight years, but the impact she has made on me will last an entire lifetime...