My mother-Graciela

What's in a name? Many things! Especially Graciela.

In our family, Graciela is a strong woman so whoever carries the name, carries with it everything that the name has earned. It all started with my mother. Her name was Graciela. She was a strong woman, always cared for her family and friends. My mom was the most amazing woman with a kind heart. Growing up, I could never picture myself living my life without her. In our short time together, she taught me many things about life. My mom instilled in me to have morals/values that have carried me through the challenges in my life, saved me from harm and directed me on how to raise my own children. I can't pinpoint an exact conversation but somehow I always knew what she expected of me. She never got to see my rebellious stage or become a mother for the first time but I've always known that she is with me.

I think of her often. I've missed her from the day she passed , the void in my heart will never be filled, not in this lifetime. One memory that I fondly remember is how she used to wake up on Saturday mornings and play her records, which would proceed with dancing and singing around the house. She would grab my brother and I and dance with us as we tried to squirm out of her arms. I also remember how she used to tuck me into bed and would always fluff the covers over me. Even as an adult, I still enjoy for the covers to be fluffed over me, it's such a great feeling!

My brother Mario named his daughter Graciela. She is a strong young lady with a good head on her shoulders. My sister was also a Graciela. Again, a strong woman who loved her family and always defended them/us. Now, we have a new generation who will carry on the strong family name. Long live Graciela-Grace of God

Happy Mother's day my beautiful mother! I know you are proud of me. I will forever miss you!

"Ask any woman whose mother has died and she will tell you that she is irrevocably altered, as profoundly changed by her mother's death as she was by her mother's life" Motherless Daughters-The legacy of loss