When you hear the phrase “quality time with the family” a specific activity may come to mind.  For me, that activity was always shopping. My mom and Nana loved to shop, actually, only if they knew they were getting a discount. I would spend hours in department stores sitting on the floor near the cash register waiting for my Mom and Nana to be done. As I got older I was able to make the revelation that every trip to the store is not a two hour minimum. My Nana worked at Sears and prided herself on her friends and family discount.This past May, my Nana passed away due to a sudden stroke and other complications. Her passing was devastating for my family considering the influential role that she played. My birthday is in August so when my mother said that I was receiving a gift from my Nana I was confused. Furthermore, I was presented with a heart outlined necklace that had my birthstone in the center. Like most grandparents, my Nana never missed a birthday. Whether it was a card with a five dollar bill or a pretty piece of jewelry, she never showed up empty handed. It was surreal to think that this was the last gift I would receive from her, and that she wasn’t able to give it to me. Therefore making this is the most valuable item I have. My Nana was always thinking about how she could give to others.When showing up to family events, showering everyone with gifts was her way of demonstrating her love. With this final gift I received a final “I love you”. 

– ally

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant