Sunday was the one year anniversary of my grandfather’s passing. Most of the time it doesn’t feel like it’s been a whole year. I think that’s mostly because of the major impact he had on my life and all the memories and values he left me. That’s not to say I don’t have my bad days because I do. I have days where I miss him so bad it aches. Usually when one of my kids will tell me how much they miss Poppy. And I’m sure there will be a lot more when we move back to California and the empty seat is right there in front of me. The pain is always cushioned by the memory of how much he loved me and our family. I always knew he loved us, but this past year it has really sunk in how well he loved. Unconditionally. Wholly. I want to be more like my Poppy and love like that.

Image by Ashley Bee Photography