Watermelon Races, Fireworks, and Memories

Although my ears can't take the sound of fireworks. the fourth of July is my favorite holiday. I love the whole relaxation of the day compared to other holidays. My dad never has to work, so we get to swim all day, and cook out at night. The whole day is spent with friends, and family.

10 years ago today I lost my first grandparent. My mother's dad, Papa had a stroke while driving and was in a very bad car accident. He passed away a couple of days later. I can remember that whole day. My best friends were all out of town, so I was with Corrine, a girl my age that lived down the street. We had played at her house earlier, and then headed to our neighborhood pool for the usual food and watermelon races. We were on our way back to her house to play some more when I saw my dad coming down our driveway as we passed my house. He called my name, so I came running. He told me that my mom had headed to Oklahoma to be with my grandma, because Papa had passed away. I went straight to my room and cried. I put my face in my pillow and just kept crying. I can still remember thinking that I could stay in that position three days straight. I miss my Papa so much. Since I was only 11, when he died I have so many things I wish I could ask, and do with him. I didn't know that the last time I was with him, was going to be the last time. I miss him so much, especially today. But I think that is a big reason that today is one of my favorite days. I am always reminded of the times that I had with him, and that those days were special because we were together.

I miss you so much Papa, and I can't wait to see you one day very soon. But until then, I am going to try my hardest to make you proud of the young woman I have become.