Grandmothers are the best. They go by different names, play different roles in our lives and stereotypically wear a number of memorable sweaters, but there is nothing else in the world like a grandmother's love. For those of us blessed to have a grandmother (or even two) for a good portion of our lives, the times and experiences are ones we never forget. These are seven times your grandmother made you the best person you could be.
1. She supported you no matter what.
The school play, your first little league game or kindergarten graduation- grandmothers are there. No matter how bad you could sing or unathletic you were, she was the most proud person in the stands. Last minute summer reading project? She was the first to volunteer to help read it to you, and maybe even helped you write the paper after.
2. She taught you how to Thanksgiving/Christmas.
Over the river and through the woods to Grandmas house we go for the best family holidays ever. Decorations on point, the prettiest Christmas lights and wreaths on every door, the holiday season was always the best with your grandparents. And trendsetters too- who would have guessed ugly Christmas sweaters would become the hottest gift of the season.
3. She took care of you when no one else could.
Who needs a baby sitter when you have Nana? At school sick and mom can't pick you up? Nana will. Parents going out of town on a business trip and need somewhere to stay? Nana's got you covered. As always one for bonus points, there may even be some Lucky Charms involved.
4. She pushed you to always do well in school.
No one understood the power of education like a grandmother. They lived through it all in the 20th century and saw every up and down a person could face. She knows how smart you really are, she believes in your ability, she sees your potential, and she understands better than anyone a strong education is the way to get there. Doctors, lawyers, judges and scientist exist because of grandmothers.
5. She told you when you were wrong.
Everyone has there stupid moments. Grandmother are not ones to coddle you when your in the wrong, they'll tell you, straight up. Whether you throw a tantrum at age 5 or 25, the person you worry about finding out? Your grandmother. The scary thing about social media is that you can't always block grandma from seeing that not-so-flattering party photo from last Saturday night... which most likely will keep you from acting that way in the first place.
6. She showed you the importance of family.
The ultimate peacemaker. No matter the fight- between mom, dad or siblings, your grandmother knew just what to say. Going back to #5, you were probably wrong too, but grandma knows exactly how to tell you that without making things worse. It's incredible really. If only diplomats and politicians were grandmothers, the world would never go to war again.
7. She loved you unconditionally.
I challenge anyone to find a better feeling in the world than a grandmother's hug. She brushed your hair just right, hugs you just tight enough, and warms your heart with every moment you're together. She'll text you good luck before your big presentation, and held your hand when you needed it. No one dries tears and cooks comfort food like a Nana does, and those of us to have that are better, stronger people because of it.
