My biggest Halo is my grandpa. He was the best man I have ever known. He wasn't just my grandpa—he was my father figure. Losing him was the hardest day of my life.

 

He was always there for anyone who needed him. He became a dad and role model to so many of us grandkids. He was one of the hardest-working, kindest, and most loving people I've ever known. He taught me the value of hard work, compassion, and always showing up for the people you love.

 

I know he'll always be in my heart, walking beside me every step of the way.

 

Some of my favorite memories with him are the simple ones. Going to Dairy Queen for Dilly Bars was always a special treat, and he loved making us grasshoppers. To this day, both Dilly Bars and grasshoppers are so near and dear to my heart because they remind me of him and the love he poured into our family.

 

If he hadn't been such an important part of my life, I truly believe I would be a very different person. I'm incredibly thankful for the example he set. I still have pieces of furniture that he built with his own hands, and every time I see them, I'm reminded of how talented, hardworking, and amazing he was. They are treasured reminders of a man who left an incredible legacy of love.

 

Two other very special Halos are our dogs, Ace and Bella.

 

Ace had a difficult start in life. He had been passed from home to home, and we couldn't bear the thought of him ending up back in a shelter at his age. Around the same time, we had just brought home a puppy, and I truly believe that gave Ace a whole new lease on life. He became my little shadow—my ride-or-die companion. No matter how he was feeling, he always wanted to be by my side, watching over me. He had the sweetest soul, and we were beyond blessed to spend the last few years of his life loving him. He gave us so much more than we could have ever given him.

 

Then there was our sweet Bella. Before we adopted her, she had been used for breeding and carried so much fear and trauma. I'll never forget bringing her home and taking her on her first car rides. She trembled in the corner of the car, and seeing her so scared broke my heart. I cried during those first two rides because I just wanted her to know she was finally safe.

 

Bella was terrified of car rides, the vet, and especially men. But through patience, love, consistency, and training classes, she slowly found her confidence. Watching her transformation was one of the greatest gifts. She went from being a frightened, timid dog to a brave, confident girl with the biggest personality. She was beautiful inside and out, and everyone who met her wanted to earn her love.

 

Ace and Bella both left permanent paw prints on our hearts. While they certainly had their challenges, we know their lives were forever changed because they were loved, safe, and part of our family. At the same time, they changed our lives in ways we could never put into words.

 

I feel incredibly blessed to have had each of these Halos in my life. My grandpa, Ace, and Bella taught me about unconditional love, resilience, kindness, and the importance of making every moment count. Though they may no longer be here beside me, I know they are always watching over me, and they will forever hold a special place in my heart.