When I was little, I always thought I would live with my mom for as long as I could. Well, if you know me, you would know that I live with my grandma, Shay. Shay is her name, but I’ve always called her Meme (may-may). She might be my grandma, but she is more of a mother figure to me. My parents death was devastating, but I could not be more thankful to have my grandma by my side during the grieving process. 

After my mom died I didn’t have to question who I would live with– I knew it would be Meme. The day my mom died, she was more concerned about how I was doing than herself.  She has been my rock since day one. It has been almost two years since the death of my parents. Since I moved in with her, she has been there for me every time I have needed her.  If I ever had a bad day at school or was just having a bad day, she was there for me. She has been my light while I’m in a dark tunnel. 

Since being with Meme, she has provided me with so many things that I would not have been able to have without her. For example, she got me a therapist so I could process the death of my parents. She has been very respectful with my feelings and what I want and don’t want to share with her. I can’t imagine my life without her. When I think back to when I lived with my mom, I think it’s so weird that I only saw Meme on special occasions or holidays. Anytime I did see her, I remember I was so excited. 

When I was little, I always remember Meme as being a country girl wearing bootcut jeans, boots and “country shirts.” After I moved in with her, I realized how different she is. She is more of a “hippie” than I could have ever imagined. She LOVES crystals, tarot cards, plants and even hippie pants. I make fun of her for all of those things, but I secretly love how passionate she is about all of that stuff. Everytime she gets more plants, I tell her that the house is going to turn into a jungle. She gets a little annoyed with me, but I think she secretly loves it. 

Even though I’m not able to live with my mom, I am forever grateful that she is the person I get to live with. Everyone has their little quirks, but I love all of hers. I am so grateful for everything that she has provided and done for me. I love her so much, and, once again, I am so grateful that she is my grandma.