She has lived with us for as long as I can remember.  I can't imagine Abuela not being in my life.  She's as familiar to me as my Mami and Papi, as well as my little sisters and brother.

Mami told me that Abuela moved in with us after Abuelo died while I was a baby.  I don't remember Abuelo, but I have seen pictures of him.  I am sure he must have been a very good man; Abuela talks like he was.

Abuela (as well as Abuelo) immigrated from Mexico shortly after I was born.  For years they did not speak English, but about five years ago, both made the decision to take ESL (English as a Second Language) classes at the local high school three nights a week; they were tired of not being able to talk with non-Spanish speaking people or being made fun of or being called rude names.  

It wasn't easy, but by God, they did it!

Abuela speaks English as well as any American now.  Abuelo did the same, but then he had a stroke.  It killed him.  He was in the backyard resting when he suddenly fell over.  He died before the ambulance got to him.  It was a very hard moment for Mami, Papi, and Abuela.  He was only 50 years old.

Abuela is a good woman with a very giving heart.  She is more than ready to give out hugs and kisses at a moment's notice: at our casa, they are never in short supply.  

She is very active, although she is in her 70's and walks on a cane.  She goes swimming and does low-impact exercises at the local gym, goes for five mile long walks with her friends, loves to go shopping and take care of her family, and attends Mass every weekend   She is a very strong woman of faith; I truly believe that is why God that allows her to have a good life.

I wish everybody could have an Abuela in their life.  It's no wonder so many people are sad: they don't have anybody to spoil them!  :)  The world would certainly be a lot better off if there were more Abuelas to offer people hugs and kisses or extra helpings of tacos, sopapillas, and burritos! YUM!!