My paternal grandmother passed away on February 6, 2022 at 100 years old.
She was born in 1921 on the island of Puerto Rico. In her lifetime she raised 3 children, many grandchildren, and lived to see great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.
I have three most cherished memories of my grandmother.
1. Whenever I would come to visit… she would take me by the left hand and passively massage and work the spasms out while we visited. It was automatic for her and I’m not even sure she realized what she was doing.
2. The smell of her house. She was always cooking. We would walk in… and she’d immediately go to the kitchen and start making something. Her house was always scented by sofrito, coffee, and whatever protein of choice.
3. During my last visit in August when my grandfather passed away, she would lead me to her room and we would sit there. Her room was dresser, and bed and 2 chairs. The dresser was protected by a glass top and under the top were decades worth of family pictures. Above her wardrobe were our family saints. As we sat in her room she would tell me stories about her life and pray to the mother of God and the Father asking for help. (in Spanish)
Grandma, I love you. The lessons you taught me throughout my life are etched on my heart and I will carry you with me forever.I hope the reunion with Tia Gia and Tia Maria and Grandpa was beautiful. Until we meet again Que Dios te bendiga.
Indomitable Bellatrix 