Dearest Papa,

The world has changed in the 13 years that you have been gone from this earth. In many ways it has changed in positive ways such as my two incredible sons George and Edward. They both remind me so much of you in so many ways. The both showed up in this world very early George was born at 27 weeks at 2lbs 1 oz. and boy was he a fighter! There was nothing that was going to stop him from growing and becoming a strong man like you. Then there is Edward who decided to only show up 6 weeks early at 4lbs 5oz. I thought he was huge and what I didn’t know was his personality was going to be as big as yours, he is determined to live life to the fullest just like you. Everyday I have a moment where I wish that you could be here with me to enjoy their giggles and see all the good they are bringing to the world and those around them.

The other day Edward was playing with a group of his friends and his friends were arguing about which team in baseball was better, when all of a sudden I hear Edward say ” guys, guys we don’t need to argue about this. It’s ok for us each to like different teams and cheer for different teams and we can still all be friends.” As I over heard his words my heart began to fill with happiness. It reminded me of the time I came to visit you and Nana and it was election year.

I remember the two of you in a heated debate and I was so worried you two were mad at each other and I wasn’t sure what to do. Then all of a sudden you said ” oh Ann, that is a very good point and that is why I love you so much.” I was puzzled and when you were putting me to bed I asked what just happened with you and Nana. I will never forget your response you said “Oh we were just talking about politics and most of the time we have very different points of view on politics.” ” Papa , does that make you sad?” “Sad, no it makes me happy that your Nana is still the smart, well spoken and knowledgeable woman I feel in love with 40 years ago. Her beauty is not only on the outside, her beauty grows deep and her intelligence is what knocked me off my feet.” I remember thinking (as a 11 year old) wow that is love.

Love is when you find someone that challenges you to believe in yourself. They recognize your beauty is not just on the surface, your beauty is what is in your heart and mind. In that moment you taught me that love is its purest when you find someone that loves you for who you are and even when you disagree on things, if you take the time to listen to their point of view you can come to an understanding because your love is more important then any political stance or sports team.

Throughout my life our conversations over the years have stayed with me and I found someone that loves me the way you loved Nana. At my wedding when you and I had our last dance together you told me “Make sure he loves you as you deserved to be loved.” Well, Papa I listened and we just celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary and each year continues to get better as we enjoy life to the fullest and watch our boys grow into strong, loving , empathic men just like you. I will love you forever and miss you for always.