Random Blog Post #3

Ever since I was young, I have had a strong relationship with my grandpa on my mom's side. I am very close to my family, but especially to him. My grandpa is the most generous and loving man I know. A majority of our conversations surround food. Ever since I could remember, he has always asked where I wanted to eat and would take me wherever my heart desired. When I was in kindergarten, my favorite spot of choice would be McDonalds and we'd both order Happy Meals of cheeseburgers, fries, and soda. Today, I have more of an adventurous palate and the places have expanded to restaurants including, "More Than Waffles" and "Lazy Dog Cafe". The one constant in these small adventures is that no matter where we go, I always enjoy spending time with him. I am always captivated by what he has to say whether it is telling me about his day taking care of my younger cousin Scotty to sharing about his past family vacations with my mom. He is the best listener too and has the most witty and encouraging things to say about my stresses at school and in life.

My grandpa is one of the major influences in my life that has impacted and helped me to become the person I am today. His kindness towards others has stood as an example I have always looked up to. When my cousins or myself bring a friend to any of our family get togethers, my grandpa always makes sure to make them feel like they're at home. I brought one of my best friends up to our June Lake family trip this year and he immediately embraced her into our family. As he does with every family member, he kept on asking if she had enough to eat and attended to her every need. 

I wouldn't have ever gotten into USC without my grandpa because of his relentless love and support. He has always encouraged me to never give up and cheered me on in my studies. He always believed in me when I sometimes didn't. Whether it was a tough golf competition or a calculus test, he would and still warmly says "you can do it." He taught me to always look for the positive in every situation and to face every obstacle head-on. Throughout the years, he has helped me build my confidence and self-esteem. I can't wait to see him this Thanksgiving and to give him the USC hat that he has been wanting.