Nana,
I have struggled for weeks to write something to you. I have gone back and forth in my head and always come to the conclusion that no words will ever be able to encompass how much you have impacted me and my life. You, Poppa and mom are my three biggest role models in life, and the people I strive to be more like every single day.
Some of my earliest memories are with you and poppa, going over to the house in southern California to swim, or holidays at the house in Asheville, or the hours and hours spent playing any and all types of board games. I will never forget the one time we were playing Cranium and you had to act out Tarzan so you beat your chest and yelled at the top of your lungs, only to find out that you weren't allowed to make any sound. I don't think I have laughed harder than I did that day. Christmas at your house was always an EVENT and I am so happy that we have those memories of times together. I think it will never truly feel like Christmas to me until everyone is sitting around the table eating way too much food and wearing paper crowns from the Christmas crackers.
Every major milestone in my life you have been a part of and have influenced. Your ability to always try and find the good in people, or the positive in a situation is something I try to do more and more every day. I will be lucky if when I'm a grandmother of my own I am even half of the grandmother you have been to me. You have influenced me in more ways than you could possibly even begin to know and I will forever be grateful for you. I can never thank you enough for everything you have done for me, Meghan, Kenny and mom. You are one of the people I have always and will always look up to. You are one of the bravest, smartest, strongest, kindest and funniest people I have ever known. I am proud to say I am your granddaughter and could not imagine anyone having a better grandmother than me. I am so glad that we are as close as we are as a family, I know that no matter what you and Poppa will ALWAYS be there for me. Even when I mess up and make mistakes, you tell me of course, but you are always there to support me. I am graduating college because of you and your constant support. I have done most of the things in my life because of you and your constant support, I would not be anywhere close to where I am today if it was not for you. You have taught me so much throughout my life; how to never take anything TOO seriously, how to golf (even though I am truly terrible), how to play every board/card/domino game, manners (even if I forget them on occasion), how to be an amazing role model, but most importantly how to be a strong person. Your consistent strength and resilience through everything amazes me. I am so grateful for the time that we have gotten to spend together throughout the years. I love you so much Nana, words will never be enough to truly explain everything you have done for me as a person.