Mama, I have so many memories with you from the last 41 years. … You had to take me to a doctor appointment when I was pregnant with Lil Juan. My doctor was in North Park and you didn’t drive on the freeway so we drove down University Ave all the way there and back. I was new to the family and we didn’t talk very much, It was the longest trip ever… Then there was the time I offered to help you and Imelda make tamales, I took so long making one that you guys kicked me out of the kitchen. I think I made 1 tamale…. I now make my own tamales with my girls, it only took 36 years to get you to tell me how to make them ?? and I was so nervous when Kiki took them to you to eat. I anxiously awaited your approval and was soooo happy that you said they were really good. You were with me when I gave birth to Charlene, you turned sheet white but had the biggest smile behind the surgical mask… When we drove my dad’s motor home to San Felipe and played cards all the way down, you had so much fun in the house on wheels. You were more than a mother in-law to me, you were my second mom. You taught me a lot about taking care of home and family. You taught me how to cook, but I will never live up to your cooking, who could. I don’t have the passion for it that you did. After all these years, Kiki and the kids have finally stopped saying ” that’s not how Nana does it”. ??I love you more than you know and will miss you so much. Charla