Last week, my family celebrated the life of my Grandma, Rosario Ventura Viernes Sales 🌹 When I remember Grandma Rose, I’ll think of the many afternoons she took care of me and my siblings. I’ll think of the many loud Viernes Christmases at her house, where my cousins and I would taste her array of dishes— pancit, dinuguan, stacks of lumpia. I’ll think of her many occupations: housekeeper, nanny, candlemaker, devout Catholic, hostess for Half Moon Bay’s Filipino community. I’ll think of her soaring laugh and the melody she’d sing for the latest baby. I’ll think of her asking about my dancing in New York, if I was keeping warm. Recently, I learned Grandma Rose was the only one of her siblings to emigrate from the Philippines. Her many descendants now live throughout America. One of her jobs was as a florist in the valley below her final resting place, and I hope my Grandma found joy and comfort seeing her family blossom across the country. So thankful the extended Viernes clan could gather last week to celebrate her fruitful ninety-two years. I love you all! Rest In Peace, Grandma. 💜🌹🌓