It's All in the Family

My grandma is in town. She is a very feisty lady. A tall woman for her era, standing at about 5'8", when she shuffles into a room, she definitely make an impression. People say that I'm like her and I'm glad. I hope I have as much spunk when I'm 89.

She came into town on a bus that takes seniors from Cleveland to Detroit to gamble at Greektown Casino. She makes this trip often, and enjoys gambling. Don't get me wrong, my Grandmother does not play craps or blackjack. You won't hear her yelling around a crowded table. She love the penny slots. She will tell you stories about big wins when she fronted just a few cents. I'm guessing we wouldn't have been able to pry her away from the machines, except for the fact that my sister is graduating from nursing school.

Yesterday my family and I sat in an auditorium and watched Shawna's two years of hard work pay off. We had to be extra supportive because Shawna's twin, Danielle was stuck in Colorado. In fact, she had been traveling all day. After a lovely diner and long hours of chatting Danielle came through the door I've never seen Shawna so happy. For a moment we were so peaceful so full of love. My sister's have accomplished a lot in the recent weeks. Shawna has graduated. Danielle was promoted to Major rank in the air force, and received a military award. As the entire family was glowing around them I felt a little self conscious. I've been spending so much time trying to take care of myself the last few weeks that I haven't been able to accomplish much. Suddenly my grandma chimed in with "and we're so happy you're alive!" (hilarious).

But, you know something, she's right. I'm pretty damn lucky I'm alive. Strike that, I'm pretty blessed I'm alive. Then, my god mother leaned over and said "my God, Jessie, you have your Dad's laugh". I don't think it was intended to be a complement, but I sure took it as one. Today I'm going to play the penny slots with Grandma Cermak at Greektown. To make up for the fact that she didn't get to gamble much yesterday. I'd say life is pretty good.