I used to call Tia "Grandma" as she is Jonathan's Grandma. A friend of ours, Mildred, asked why I called her Grandma. That's when I realized, yes, that is true as she is too young to be my Grandma. Then I began to call her "Tia". We met the family through our son, Mikee, who was Jonathan's classmate since pre-school at Pinecrest. My husband, Edd, and John would often talk while they dropped off and picked up the boys at school. Today, the boys are 8th graders at St. Mary School and will be on their way to high school by next school year. Yes, time passes so quickly.
My first memory of Tia is when we met up in Cabo. They were in a Disney Cruise and when they stopped at Cabo, we met at Villa del Palmar where we were staying. We spent most of the day at brunch then drinks at Mango Deck. We had a great time. I remember being in Tia's house twice, once for Jonathan's birthday and the other time for a Pacquiao - de la Joya match (at least I think it was vs. Pacquiao). She was always generous, fun loving and made us feel right at home.
The last two months very special that I will always treasure. When St. Mary started Bingo, I went to the very first before they opened to the public. Much to my delight, Tia was there sitting at the front table. I naturally sat right next to her. We were excited that we had this activity to share. Although I played Bingo as a youngster, this was a different level. Tia taught me and she watched over my shoulder. She was so sweet and caring. From that point on, my Thursday nights became my Bingo night. Tia would be there before the doors opened. She was kind to save me a spot right next to her in the first table, center! We had one of the best spots in the house. In between games, we would talk about family and life. During one of those Thursdays, she showed me her bruises from her dialysis treatments. She alwayes amazed me with her strength and courage. Her spirit and love for life! She told me how her kidney issues affect her heart. She asked me, "Do you know the effect this has on my heart? It has such an effect on my heart that any time I could go!" She said those with tears in her eyes. I responded and said, "You'll be fine, Tia." She talked about her love for her family, her husband, her daugher, and her Junior! Her grandson, Jonathan, and her daughter-in-law, Celida. She was very, very proud of all of them. She even showed me a recent picture of Jonathan and how proud she was for how handsome (he always was handsome) and how he's grown as a young man! That night, that conversation was special. I felt what she felt. The next day, I sent John a text to say how I love his mom! I told John how she truly loved her family. I am glad I sent that message when I did. I missed Bingo the last two Thursdays before Tia was called to heaven. The first of that Thursday, I stopped by Bingo to let her know I wasn't going to play that night but wanted to give her a copy of a ChristmasNovena. The following Thursday, I missed Bingo again and did not get a chance to call, text, or see her. The week that followed, I got a text from Celida to let us know of Tia's stroke! I was shocked and very saddened. We will all miss Tia. I will miss Tia as my Bingo nights will never be the same. I will always remember her, cherish her, and keep a special place in my heart for her. I know that she will always be here to watch over us. Thank you so much Tia, for all the wise words and life lessons you shared. Our whole family loves you. As with your whole family, you were always supportive of us especially Mikee. You were always there to watch Mikee's shows. Thank you for your love and friendship. Te amo!!!