Ellen C. Caldwell | ECLAIRE.me

At first, there were so many firsts. All of these places that I had yet to revisit on my own, since the more memorable times there in my youth with my grandparents. So much time traveling to experience. But my firsts always brought memories of my lasts as well. Eating at this diner, I remembered the good times there, like celebrating birthdays and the new year after the Rose Parade. But I also remembered the hard times there, like going there for the first time after my grandpa died, then going with my great aunt for the first time after my grandma died, and eventually going there alone.

Now, when I am thankful for someone or anyone in my life, there is no hesitation. Passionately, immediately, humorously, and unabashedly, I tell people – And this is how I learned to write love letters.