Very unfortunatley, I had to be over seas when my Great Grandmother passed away this past month. Although I wasnt able to be there with my family, I know that my Grandma was watching over me here in Spain. Of course 95 years is an age to celebrate, but as my Great Grandma made such a huge impact on all of our lives, we knew it would be hard to say goodbye. Being so far away was definitely difficult. Luckily I have made great friends here in Spain that were there for me. Everyone was wonderful, and that weekend, they all made a toast to "Gina's Great Grandma." It was very comforting for being so far.
I am so happy that my Great Grandma was able to come to my going away party before I left for Spain. As sad and hard as it was for me not to be home, my family kept reminding me that I saw grandma at her best, and will have a great last memory of her. She was such an amazing person, and had more wisdom and life experience then anyone I will ever know. About 5 years ago, my Great Grandma gave me a prayer that she said she wanted me to say everyday because it would help me make decisions. Im proud to say that I have said it every day since then, and will continue to say it. I will always remember her telling me to "make room for my guardian angel", as well as playing pokino on my kitchen table for hours, while listening to old stories. Michael and I will never forget when she stayed at our house one weekend when we were about 10 and 12. It was a school day and grandma made us homemade frenched toast before school!! Or the time I told her that I was using her name as my confirmation name..she cried tears of joy. From then on she called me 'Gina D' for Gina Dominica. I will also never forget on my Auntie Julie and Uncle Larry's wedding day when my Great Grandma was in the hospital. Our limo drove my entire family to the hospital after the church and we all went up in our dresses to see my Grandma! I admired her strength, her sharp mind, as well as her faith. I am so unbelievably lucky to have even met my Great Grandmother, let alone really get to know her as well as I did for almost 21 years! I am honored to have the name Dominica as my confirmation name as she will forever be a part of my life.
te echo de menos bisabuela y te quiero.
(i miss you great grandma and i love you)
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Such wonderful things you said about great grandma. She will be truly be missed. Love you - xoxo Auntie Julie
ReplyDeleteThis captures everything about great grandma. You have a wonderful last memory of her. She will always be watching over you. We miss you and love you! Auntie Danielle
ReplyDeleteI have just finished reading your memories and feelings for Great Grandma the second time. My heart is full and my eyes are tearful. She would be so happy that you are saying the prayer she gave you so long ago, and she was very proud & happy that you took her name for confirmation. I love you Gina, and want you to know that you are very special.
ReplyDeleteHugs & Kisses,
Grandma
So beautifully written...I know Great Grandma was so proud of you and your opportunity to be studying in Spain. She will ALWAYS be with us. I learned two things...that you say a prayer Great Grandma gave you everyday and that she called you Gina "D". She was such a special woman who taught us all so much about life, faith and who loved her family very much. I am so happy you were able to have such a beautiful relationship with her..something I am forever grateful for. Even though I love reading about your experiences in Europe, this is my favorite entry...I love you!!!!
ReplyDelete