My grandmas are some of my favorite people on the planet.
While I know it sounds cheesy, it’s true.
They are two of the most beautiful people I have ever met, yet their beauty goes far beneath their skin.
My Grandma
Just as I’m a “bonus daughter”, my Grandma is a “bonus grandparent.”
However, I do not know if I have ever thought about it that way. To some people, the distinction helps them understand our family dynamic.
In our family, there is no distinction because that doesn’t matter to us.
I’ve known my Grandma from the time I was a baby and she has been there for me every step of the way.
A Woman of Many Qualities
Having been an elementary school teacher, Grandma is great with kids.
She has a way of explaining things—of guiding you in a way that allows you to come to the conclusion yourself.
It can be difficult to understand and communicate with people on such a level, yet, she does it with ease.
Her favorite part of teaching was seeing the kids grow up. As much as she loved teaching them, she was excited about the potential of what they could be.
However, as sweet as she is, my Grandma might be one of the most competitive people I have ever met.
You wouldn’t guess it just looking at her, but as soon as she gets playing cards in her hand, she’s relentless. (My grandma’s family is big on card games)
When I was a kid, my Grandma and Grandpa lived in Tennessee so we weren’t able to see them often. But when we did, it was always one of my favorite trips.
We liked to play a few rounds of Uno every night—those games are one of my fondest memories of our Tennessee visits.
I can still vividly remember sitting in the sunroom at a round wicker table at sunset playing the card game with my family.
A Move That Brought Us Even Closer
When she moved to Pennsylvania, my grandma was a constant.
When both parents had to work, she was the one making dinner and taking us to practice. Honestly, Grandma’s visits were my favorite days of the week.
More often than not, Grandma and I would end up in the family room doing a puzzle or watching our favorite tv shows.
Namely, cop shows or the Property Brothers (you can imagine how excited Grandma and I were when they came to QVC).
Life is made up of small moments which is what makes it so meaningful.
It is sitting on the couch talking about childhood, memories, and the world around you.
It is the thought to reach out to someone and show you care.
My Grandma and I have always been good at taking in those quiet moments.
She’s the first person I call when I have free time at school. Whether it is just to hear her voice or tell her big news, she always picks up.
My Grand Grandmas
I’ve been blessed to have many strong women in my life and my Grand is one of the strongest people that I know.
While she’s always willing to listen to other people, she goes after what she wants when she’s determined.
No matter how old you are, having confidence in yourself is a lesson you should always keep in mind.
Grand always loves a hug, but she also shows her love through giving.
On my mother’s side, we have a very large family. And by large, I mean that when everyone is gathered, we number in the twenties.
Yet, when any one of us visits, she has our favorite food on the menu.
Speaking of cooking, my Grand is one of the best cooks… ever. Seriously, I think this woman could beat Bobby Flay.
While her food is amazing, cooking has a much deeper meaning in her eyes.
For us, the kitchen is the beating heart of the family. It’s not only a chance to pass down life skills, but it’s also a way to connect.
My Grand says you can learn a lot about a person by cooking with them. Granted, you’ll learn how much sauce they like on their pizza.
However, you’ll also learn what makes them tick: their values, their humor, their favorite things.
She often makes everything from scratch, whether it is pasta or pizza dough. Her grandchild and great-grandchildren are right beside her doing it.
The youngest in our family—two of my second cousins—have been helping in the kitchen since the time they were four.
Why Grandmas Are Special
If you watch a movie, the first thing that comes to mind about grandmas is the snacks they stash or the hand-crocheted scarf they give you for Christmas.
However, I think the best part about grandmas is their unconditional love.
It’s being able to sit with them and learn about a time that you were never able to experience. It’s talking about whatever is bothering you and knowing they will always be able to listen.
I love you both so much.
From me to you,
Kylie
