As a kid, I was fortunate enough to live really close to my grandparents. That meant sleepovers at Grandma’s, Sunday dinner’s, pool days, etc. You could say I spent a lot of time there. Later, my grandparents moved across the country, but we stayed close. Throughout the years my grandma taught me so many things that made me who I am today. A week or so ago, my mom called and gave me the bad news that my sweet grandma had passed away. I was completely shocked and heartbroken. As I have gone through the grieving process and attended her funeral, I’ve had time to reflect on all the things she has taught me.

1. Read often

She would read me books as a little kid and was always reading. Her Kindle app was full of more books than I can imagine. Seeing her read all the time inspired me to read, and made me the book worm I am today.

2. Love with all your heart

I saw her love all seventeen grandkids equally and with all her heart. Whatever we asked, she would try her very best to do. She supported all of us by going to countless soccer games, performances, and did all of this with a smile. She taught me to love.

3. Serve

As she attended all of our soccer games, she would also serve. She would make the grandkids clothes if we asked, she babysat us ALL the time so our parents could get rid of us for a minute, and always invited others to dinner so they could feel at home. Her example of service is what I would like to achieve one day.

4. Think of others first

On the same note, she was always thinking of others before herself. She wanted to make sure everyone was taken care of before she thought of herself. Whenever I would drive down for the weekend from college to visit her, she would always ask what I needed, or would hand me cash. One day I hope to be like her.

5. You can never have too many purses

My, oh my, did this lady love purses! Every time I saw her, she had a new purse. I would always complement her and she would just smile. I’ve learned that you can never have too many purses! Life is too short to not buy the purse!

6. Pedicures are a must

My grandma would get pedicures so often that the ladies at the nail salon knew her by name. That is my goal in life! She took me to get my first pedicure when I was young, and my life hasn’t been the same since! Her toes were always painted the cutest colors.

7. Some days, stay in your pajamas until noon

Many times, my grandma wouldn’t get out of bed until ten, and would lounge around in her pajamas until noon. How awesome is that?! She understood the concept of relaxing and taking care of yourself. Some days, you just need to relax!

8. Music is essential to life

The reason I love music is because of my sweet grandma. Music was always a part of her home. When I was a kid, she would play the piano and I would just watch her. I would sing along and try to keep up, but I remember she played the piano so beautifully. I also remember trying out for a choir, and I was so nervous. She helped me with my audition and gave me the confidence I needed. We would watch musicals together, so every time I see The Sound of Music, I will think of her.

9. Smile

Lastly, just smile. My cute grandma was always smiling. She taught me that the most important accessory (besides a cute purse of course) is a smile. Her smile could light up a room and was contagious.

Losing someone is never easy and I miss my grandma so much. BUT, I will try to follow her example and be a better person. I know I have a guardian angel watching over me now.