Today is my Meme’s birthday.

Unfortunately we’ve marked this special day without her for the past few years.

It’s now a day that goes by without phone calls, parties, or cake. A day that seems maybe to be in danger of becoming a “blink and you’ll miss it” kind of day.

But for me, it’s still a date circled on the calendar. And although it’s celebrated a little differently these days, I still think it’s a day worthy of celebrating. Without this special day I wouldn’t have the memories I cherish so much now, or even be the person I am today.

Because

If it wasn’t for my Meme I would never have learned the art of making Thanksgiving Dinner for a crowd.

If it wasn’t for my Meme I may never have learned the art of cross-stitch, and all the skills learned with that.

If it wasn’t for my Meme I wouldn’t have a love for “Jeopardy” and “Wheel of Fortune” (hey, that’s life shaping too…).

If it wasn’t for my Meme I would never have known how exciting it is to find Easter eggs in June…or even the next year.

If it wasn’t for my Meme I definitely wouldn’t have considered it quite so lucky to be the only granddaughter.

And if it wasn’t for my Meme I probably wouldn’t have inherited a love need for gathering people around my table for a meal – no matter how big or small.

If it wasn’t for my Meme.

So Happy Birthday Meme. I know I speak for everyone when I say we miss you, but we’re pretty thankful for the years and memories left in our hearts.

And p.s. don’t worry, I’ll have a piece of chocolate for both of us today. I love you.