Submitted by Hannah Gonzales (age 16 )

Nowhere in the world is as safe as grandma’s house. When you’re a kid, it’s the most comfortable place you can think of. The memories of being young and being at my grandma’s house stick out to me in the form of snapshots, little bits and pieces of sensations, like the always-present-yet-faint scent of strong perfume, or the way the light shines through the sitting room window on lazy afternoons. I remember how going to grandma’s house always meant that I was in for a treat, and whether it be a glass of homemade orange juice or a painting lesson, it never failed to excite me. I’m reminded of exactly how it felt to be there when I was younger and of all of the adventures I went on with grandma. Everything seemed so much bigger then; a trip to the store or to the beach seemed as if it was the trip of a lifetime. And yet, something so small, so mundane, lingers among my fondest memories.
My Grandma Toni, who was my dad’s mom and passed away in 2008, was, and remains to be, one of my favorite people that I’ve ever had the privilege to meet and get to know. She had quite the eccentric personality, and almost everything she did or said was hilarious. Her sense of humor was always shining, and there was very little that she would take seriously. She always took my side no matter what, and whether it be standing up to the preschool bully, or persuading my dad into getting me some new toy, she never failed at making sure that someone got what they deserved. Toni managed to make everything fun – we literally fed seagulls in the Big Lot’s parking lot every day, and it was actually made enjoyable. I’ll never forget all of her antics and all of her stories and everything that she’s taught me. I look up to her for her strength and for all that she’d gone through. I know that she didn’t just touch my life, but the lives of many others as well, and I will always remember her for the inspiration that she is.
My Grandma Fifi has always been a huge influence on my life, and she has taught me more over the years than I can ever put into words. Ever since I was a little girl, she has always been there for me, and she’s served so many roles in my upbringing; as my guide, my teacher, and my best friend. There are so many outstanding traits, and yet what I really admire is Fifi’s creativity and talent. She was the first person to really teach me how to draw and paint, and I cannot thank her enough for all of the time she’s spent with me and for all of what I’ve learned from her. Her artistic talents and visions expanded my own creative mind, and her motivation is my inspiration. Fifi’s strength and her undying love are radiant and encouraging, and I am so grateful for all of the memories that we have shared.

Both of my grandmothers are incredibly strong and admirable women, and I love them more than I can put into words.

Hannah’s Grandma Toni