At Peace

My name is Gemmo Casabar. To me Ernestina Medrano was my grandmother. She was my lola. I will always have fond memories of her. She played a big role in my childhood. One of the earliest memories I have with her was when I was four years old. She would take my brother to school when he was in kindergarten and I would tag along. I remember one time we went to the school cafeteria and they were preparing the day's lunch. I had told her I wanted some of the tater tots they were preparing. She asked and they told her I couldn't have any because I didn't go to school yet. My lola was always there when I needed something. When I was a little older, my brother and I would go to her house after school and she would babysit us. Whenever I was hungry she would prepare something for me and when I shouted her she would help me. I will never forget how she took care of me. She always reminded me and my brother to be good boys. Every time I would leave her house she would always say to me "be a good boy." To say that this little phrase had little effect on me would be an understatement. This little phrase would shape me in ways that I wouldn't think. This little phrase shaped me to be kind to others, to be close to God, and to be good in all senses of the word. Lola was the only grandparent I have ever known and I'm so glad that she was a part of my life. Even though she is no longer with us, I know she is in a better place and I will always remember and cherish the times that I spent with her. I will truly miss her.


My grandmother passed away January 4, 2011. It was a Wednesday at 10:00pm PST. I read this remembrance of her at her reception today. Remembering, writing, and reading these memories about her just brings me to tears.