St. Patty's Day

I'm missing a few things today.

I am missing my voice.  Although my boyfriend thinks this raspiness that lingers in my throat is hot, I'd much prefer my normal tone.

I am missing the Magners that I was hoping to drink in honor of this great holiday.

I am missing the hot pretzels I annually devour at my hometown's St. Patty's Day parade.

I am missing the four amazing months that I lived abroad in Ireland when I was 19.  It was an experience that changed my life.  I made great friends, traveled the world, and I grew up.

I am also missing my grandfather who passed away 7 years ago today.  This is the first anniversary of his death that I didn't cry.  Instead, I silently greeted him at the beach this morning, smiled, and let the warmth of the sun remind me of all the beautiful memories I have with him and my grandma during my childhood visits to Florida.

I'm missing a few things today.  I know I will eventually get some of them back, but the others, well, I hold close the moments I will never relive again.  And smile.