My Weekly Visits To Grandma's

 I remember as a child and teenager traveling to my Grandmother's apartment every Saturday and Sunday. I would cross the parking lot to get across to the walkway. Every time we approached the living room window she would greet me with her beautiful smile. She always made me feel welcome and I enjoyed my visits. My family and I would eat dinner there on the weekends. Her apartment was neat and spotless. Her English wasn't quite perfect but she still made an effort. She spoke Greek fluently. She was extremely proud when she became a citizen of the United States. As an adult she immigrated from Greece to New York. I couldn't wait to get to what I called "my favorite chair" which was so comfortable to sit in. She was such an easy person to talk to no matter what the conversation was about. In junior high school I was criticized for being too shy and quiet. My grandmother's reply was "Why can't they leave her alone" in reference to the teachers comments. One teacher in particular told me "I was too emotional" well I was thinking I just can't turn my emotions on and off. I appreciate the fact that my grandmother was the only one on my side during this complicated time. She was the most caring and generous person who would go out of her way to accommodate anyone. She passed away in April 1986 I miss those moments that we had spent together. My favorite recollection was her garden in the front showcasing the many different types of flowers and their brilliant colors. My grandmother was the most important person in my life.