Grandpa’s Birthday April 26, 2020
Dear Grandpa,
For the past seventeen years (almost), I have held so dearly to my heart that we have shared (almost) the same birthday! For the past two years, you have come to California despite Grandma’s drastic fear of planes in order for all of us to celebrate together! My sixteenth birthday was particularly my favorite as we got to celebrate our birthdays with Dad and Kathleen’s friends, and then the next morning have a lovely breakfast after I drove you around in my new car! That birthday, you also gave me one of my most prized possessions: the gold and diamond ring. I have found that, during this time, I seem to wear that ring nearly every day. It is something that I will keep with me forever. Unfortunately, we cannot be together to celebrate this year; however, I cannot wait for the day that we will be together again! I’m not sure when that will be, but I hope it is soon. I can’t wait to give you and Grandma hugs and talk about my life and future, whatever I may believe it to be at that time. You and Grandma have always been the most loving souls. No matter the distance between us, every time we see each other, it’s as though nothing has changed. I miss all of our memories at the old house with the maple tree and going out to Friendly Farms to eat all of the goodies on the menu. I remember going into your shed and laying on the couch in your office, hoping that Max didn’t come near me ‘cause I knew he was planning an attack. I miss feeding the coy fish with Grandma and having breakfast with you every morning in the condo. One thing that I think I get from you- and I apologize but also give some credit to Grandma Missy- is this love and passion for music. Every now and then, I remember that you were an actual music teacher and I become astonished because I realize that it all makes sense where my love for classical music comes from- a love that is not commonly shared among teenagers these days. Now, I know I’ve written a lot about our past memories, but don’t you worry! There are so many more to come in the future! I’m especially looking forward to my high school graduation, which Dad said you and Grandma would come out to see! I’m so excited for you to see my school! I’m hoping to speak at graduation, too, so that could make it all the more special. I miss you and Grandma all the time and I know this time is hard for everybody, but I’m so proud of everyone in the family for staying strong so that we can all reunite soon! I love you dearly, Grandpa. Happy birthday.
Love,
Syd
Dear Grandpa,
Happy birthday. I’m so happy that we’re able to spend your big day with you. You are one of the most noble men I know. You are wise, caring, and incredibly kind. Your passion for music inspires me to be the best at whatever it is I do, whether that be music or athletics; no matter what it is, you have taught me to give it 110%. I am so thankful that you are a part of my life, and you have touched everyone who has had the gift of having you in theirs’. I love you, Grandpa. I hope you’ve had a wonderful day.
–Syd
April 2016