It has been nearly a year since my family lost our matriarch and not a day passes without fond thoughts of her.

On Feb. 13, 2023, my final living grandparent, my grandmother took her last breath days shy of her 91st birthday. Small reminders keep her memory alive – a tiny photo dangling from my visor, a spider plant my wife miraculously revived, a plant that had graced my grandmother's home for years, and a note proudly displayed beside it.

To say that I miss her tremendously is an understatement.

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On my wedding day, my mother surprised me with a handwritten note that had been set aside specifically for my big day. She knew how much it would mean to me but I wasn't prepared for the emotions Memere's words would evoke.

Moments before the ceremony, I found a quiet moment in a horse stall, my hand trembling as they held the note. I knew whatever was in that envelope would bring me to my knees with emotion.

I was right.

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Gazelle/Townsquare Media
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Hi Chris,

I can still picture you in my arms, and I can't believe how fast the years have gone by. I am so proud of you. I hope you have a wonderful life, and I'll be watching over you from above (yes, even your Pep). I am leaving you some money for your wedding if it's meant to be. If not, do whatever you want with it.

God Bless You,
Lots of love, Mem
P.S. I hope you can still read cursive (LOL) oooxxx

My grandmother's sharp sense of humor always shone through.

Gripping the note with one hand, my face buried in the other, it felt as if Memere had never left us. I could sense her presence all around me. Even today, whenever I notice the clock striking 11:11, I know it's her checking in.

Grief is heavy but with this note, I found peace. With her memorial placard on my dashboard, I feel safe, and every drop of water given to that now-healthy spider plant reminds me that with a little patience and love, anything is possible.

Forever in my heart, Mem, until we meet again.

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