Carmen L. Alvarez

My abuela is my role model, she was the strongest person I know and she worked hard for everything and never gave up. Her faith in God was beautiful, she always prayed at night and NEVER missed a Sunday mass. She would always drag me to Church, and I would always whine but, I am happy she did so because it made my relationship with God. My grandma had a smile that would always make me smile, my sisters and I would always look at my grandma and laugh because she was so adorable. She always talked good about my sisters and I, she called us “her three beautiful girls”. It sucks that she won’t physically be here when I graduate but, I know she is now with me every step of the way. I will make her proud. I love her so much and I wish I could give her one more hug and kiss.

-Isabella or “Gorda”

My mom was one of the strongest people I know. Not only was she strong but she was hardworking, caring, loving and honest. She was the perfect example of a mom and I am so thankful for everything she did for me. She was selfless, genuine and I will miss her forever.

-Manny

Most loving, compassionate, strongest women. The best grandmother a girl could ask for. She always took care of everyone around her. You always knew how to make me smile and laugh. Even when she was mad, she would always have a smile on her face. She taught me many things including faith. Thank you for always being there for my dad and never giving up on our family. I will succeed for you. I love you very much mama.

-Ally

My great protector is now my guardian angel. Everything I am is because of her and I am so thankful for the 21 years I had with her. Through the hard and good times, she was always there for us and I could never thank her enough. My abuela was my person and every memory we had together I will cherish forever. Even though you won’t be here to tell me my nails are ugly, or I need to stop getting tattoos, I know you’re saying it in heaven. May you bless me and walk by my side as I grow older. I’ll see you in heaven! I love you!

-Kaitlyn

She was my other mom here in the US when my parents moved to the Philippines. From the first day I met her, I knew she loved her son and husband so much. She would do anything to protect them. Boy, was she a firecracker with a strong spirit and a huge heart. Then Kaitlyn was born and she became her protector along with her my other two daughters, Allyson and Isabella. She loved them with all her heart! Although we didn’t see eye to eye at times, I loved her for loving my girls so much. I thank her for raising them so that Manny and I was able to work. I appreciate her for making sure the girls were fed and taken to and from wherever they needed to go. She was their biggest cheerleader! Please know that I will continue to protect the girls and make sure they grow up to be as strong as you. May you watch over them and guide them to be the best that they can be in life. I ask for one more thing…say “hi” to my mom and dad tell them stories of the girls that they have missed while living in the Philippines. Until we meet again! Love you!

-Anna