Our Ever Increasing Family

Three years ago my mom was blessed with reconnecting with one of her best friends over Facebook.  Ruby had grown up with my mom and over the years they had lost touch, like most of do.  Not only did this connection bring Ruby back into my moms life, it also brought her Godmother, Helen.  Helen was also my grandmas best fried and was the person who introduced the Catholic religion to my grandparents.  They all did many things together and now with my mom and Ruby getting back in touch we have had this whole other family come into our lives.

Up to that point I didn't even know my mom had a godmother.  I didn't know who my grandma had been friends with.  I had heard stories that it was a good friend that introduced grandma and grandpa to the Catholic religion but didn't know who it was and that was the reason they had been baptized.  Now not only do I know who it is, I also have a face and stories and pictures.  All priceless things for all of us.

Last week Helen passed away peacefully after a short battle with her health and dementia.  Here is the link to her obituary:

Helen Katherine Garcia

Tonight is her viewing and Rosary and then tomorrow will be her funeral mass.  With the sad also can come some happiness.  This happiness has been meeting all of Ruby's family.  I have finally been able to meet her wonderful husband and her children.  I have heard so much about everyone for the last few years and it was wonderful to meet everyone last night.  One of Ruby's grandson's birthday was yesterday and we all met at Chucky Cheese for his birthday party.  I can't even express what a blessing it was to be able to go and meet such an amazing family.  Ruby's son is Tony and he is married to Veronica and they have 3 of the most amazing and beautiful children.  Ruby's daughter is Brittany and her partner is Melissa.  

I have to say that at such a difficult time in their lives, they were so loving and wonderful and we are so blessed to have them in our lives.  I feel like my family just grew by leaps and bounds to now include not just Helen and Ruby but all of Ruby's family.  I want to tell you all thank you so much for being so gracious and welcoming us so openly into your family.  

I am so thankful for my mom for teaching us that family does not just include our blood relatives but all the amazing people that are lead into our lives and bless our lives.  I am so thankful to have this connection with such a wonderful family and that that connection also has such a rich history with my grandparents.