A family

My mother’s parents, who lived in Minnesota all of my life, were the main inspiration to the storybook I had unfolding in my head. The daydream chronicles of my post-teenager life involved a yard full of kids, supporting a husband through schooling, and enjoying the rest of our lives together after graduation from college while attending church. And yet, I knew perfectly well, the complications of large families- staring off young, floundering through college with little ones under books and lamps and bottles of Tylenol (most likely children's variety for all) for both the parents and the kids. After all, they did have seven kids in eight years- including the twins. Grandfather working at the high school as a chemistry teacher and Grandmother at night, nursing patients. They managed. And knowing all the hard work, aches, pains, and stories of living in a Quonset hut while Grandpa finished his Chemistry degree at Kansas State University and Grandma finishing her Physician’s Surgery assistant with four kids in a one room apartment already and certifications up ahead, I wanted more than ever to follow the example of my grandparents. They were also very dedicated to the Catholic church and went every day that they could and never ever just on the Sabbath. I knew, it had all been worth it to them (the hard work and influx of life and human tolerance and intolerance against the bleak biting cold especially in a four door sedan with no heat)- that is all I could see as I visited them in Minnesota growing up as I learned about their stories and remembered them. I love that my Gramma stayed calm and serene during it all. She was often referred to as having a similar fashion and style as Jackie Kennedy Onasis, such a flair. I feel so thankful to have such a wonderful woman in my life named my Grandmother, especially since I need that as a woman, however I am especially thankful for both of my grandparents as well and all the extra help, love and care they put into my life overall.