"Tu Solo Tu"

Last week my family lost an enormously important person, my Gramma. I flew out with my parents last Thursday, but sadly we were too late, as she passed away Wednesday night at 11:05 PM. Andy and Tyler flew out Saturday for the funeral and to be there for me.... I love them dearly for their support! I can't express enough what an empty feeling I have now that she's gone. One of the songs played at her service was "Tu Solo Tu" (You Only You) which is a song that will forever be ingrained in my head when I think about my Grandparents.

Below is what I (yes, "I"!) spoke at her service:

My Gramma can be described in numerous way, of those, she was Loving, Giving, Humble, Open Hearted, Accepting and most of all caring in every way and her Love was unconditional. To my friends, my brothers and my cousins friends, she was always known as "their Gramma" as well, and she treated them like a part of the family. her house (and kitchen) was always open and welcoming to anyone that walked through the door...and no one left hungry!


There are so many things I will remember and cherish about her, like the unrelenting way she tried to teach me Spanish (completely unsuccessfully), or her teaching me her top secret and famous salsa chili (which was quite successful!). But some of the most important lessons she taught me were to be responsible, loving, forgiving and nurturing. She meant so very much to me and I am thankful for every minute I had with her. She would have done anything for her family and did most of the time. However, us Grandkids learned quickly, when she yelled "mija" or "mijo" in a not so loving way, she meant business, but it never meant she didn't love us unconditionally.


A few of my fonder memories include her meeting me everyday at elementary school to walk me back to her house, where she would make me the best quesadillas I have ever had. And I'm sure several of us witnessed my Gramma yelling at my Grampa for something completely unforgivable- like the day I remember her yelling, "Viejo, you put the butter on the wrong shelf! What is wrong with you??"


I was lucky enough to spend most of my childhood with her almost everyday. She was like my second mom. I know I would not be who I am without her guidance and encouragement. She was the cornerstone to our family and life will never quite be the same without her. She will be eternally loved and deeply missed.

I love you Gramma!
Some pictures from time spent with family and friends...and our celebration of my Gramma's life.