I never called you stepchildren. Not even for a day. That word felt like distance I never saw that way. So I chose another word— The only one that fit. Bonus. Because God surprised me With all of you. From the day I joined your family, My heart made room for you. Not step... Not half... Not almost... BONUS grandchildren. Each birthday found its place. Each Christmas held your name. Every little milestone Brought joy we couldn't tame. Pearce, your steady leadership... April, beautiful and bright... Lillee, that first day we met, You filled my heart with light. Caleb, gentle, faithful soul... Jack, quiet, strong, and true... Each of you became a chapter That I'll always carry through. If you ever wonder Whether you were loved... Please don't. You were. More than words Could ever tell. Not because We shared a name... But because We shared a heart. Jaxon, every email home Became a treasured part Of quiet mornings spent with joy And gratitude-filled hearts. Thank you for including us Within your mission too. We've read each word with thankful tears— So very proud of you. Hayden and Sawyer— Before the happy news was told, Grandpa somehow smiled and whispered, "I think another's on the way." Those were precious days. Logan, dancing through the house, With laughter in your eyes... You turned ordinary moments Into treasured family ties. Hunter... We dreamed of building side by side, You and Grandpa, full of pride. Claire and London... Your hugs could chase the clouds away, And fill our home with light each day. Books, games, and puppet shows, Tubelox castles reaching high... Those precious days together Still make this Grandma smile. And Calvin... Oh, those funny faces. That little dancing jig. Thank you for the gift of laughter... For every smile you gave. Life doesn't always Follow the road We hoped that it would take. Sometimes grown-ups Lose their way... And children's hearts Can ache. But hear me now... If this song should find you Many years from today... None of this Was ever Because we stopped Loving you. Not for one day. Not for one moment. Not for one heartbeat. So wherever life may lead you, Whatever dreams you chase... Know there is a Grandma Who thanked God For every face. Be brave. Be kind. Choose goodness. Keep your faith. Love your families well. And if someday You wonder What I hoped for you... It was never riches. Never fame. It was simply this— That you would know How completely You were loved.
