Grandmother Remembered

We got a message from Taiwan earlier this morning that my grandmother is no longer with us; she has gone to heaven to be with our ancestors. I don't recall much of my childhood with my grandmother because my family left Taiwan when I was only 2 1/2. From what my mom previously told me, I was considered the 'favorite' grandson at the time and could always bring a smile to her face. In the US, she visited several times always bearing gifts; my favorite being the two C's - candy and cash. I am very fortunate to have had the chance to be with her more often; I visited quite frequently when I studied abroad at NTU and also when I worked at Sampo for 1 1/2 years. She wasn't much of a conversationalist but it meant a lot to me just to sit there and watch Taiwanese soap operas with her. I may or may not be going back to Taiwan, but my father is heading back shortly; definitely within the next day or two. I don't know how he is handling it, but I'm sure he will be strong for his family. Here are two photos I found from my archives (I actually have a lot more photos of my grandmother pre-digital age):

This was at my grandmother's 80th birthday; the other two are my younger cousins.

My brother and my grandmother at our home in Diamond Bar (don't know when?)


Here are some random things that I remember about my grandmother:
1. Very independent. Even at 80, she would push a cart to the local market to purchase fresh produce and fresh meat.
2. She loved to chew Big Red bubble gum.
3. When she knew I was visiting, she would buy some 10NT juice or sometimes even some ice cream.
4. She was considered a Taiwanese national treasure for being one of very few individuals who could make traditional Taiwanese farmers clothing (she was even in the newspaper).
5. She loved to knit, and both my brother and I still have sweaters that she's made.
6. She was philanthropic, giving to the temple and compassionate to the needy.
7. When I would nap on the couch, she would put a sweater or jacket over me.
8. A loving wife, parent, grandparent.

PiRo Weekly Update

Age: 15 weeks
Weight: 16 pounds