Querencia Draft

          I hopped off of the car feeling the humid weather touch my skin, which I ignore because I have just arrived at my grandmother’s house. Just seeing the place where I took my first few steps, the place where I use to go every year to visit my dad, the place where I call my second home, makes me want to stay there forever. As I open the tall red gates, hearing the squeaking sound of it opening, the butterflies start rushing through my stomach. I then see my uncle’s dogs running towards my as if I was a brand new dog toy. I remember as a child, every time I visit this place, my love for animals grew stronger and stronger. Rushing into my grandmother’s house to greet her with a big hug after not seeing her for a couple of years was very heart warming. And seeing my previous nannies brings back memories on how we would always walk in the blazing sun to get some food and drinks. As the days go on, my mind starts to clear almost as if nothing would every bother me. Being with my family is one the few things that relieves my stress. And not being there all the time makes it an even more special place for me.

            I can smell the food cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen the minute I walk in. My sister and I would help her prepare the table by placing a scoop or two of rice on each place. But even though my sister’s scoops were way better than mine, my grandmother would just smile at me, letting me know that im doing a good job. I can hear the sound of my parents and relatives enjoying their selves as they tell stories on how they have been throughout the time they haven’t seen each other. But I stay in the living room, which is one of my favorite rooms in the entire house.

            I walk into my grandmother’s room seeing her all her nick-nacks and pictures of each and everyone of her grandchildren. Being addicted to eating candy I stand on my toes quickly noticing her favorite sweets, which were tootsie rolls and strawberry sour belts. But sadly it wasn’t for any of us and every once in a while, if we were good, she would reward us with some of it. I then walk towards my cousin’s room where a lot of foolishness takes place. My sister, cousins, and I would get in tons trouble for doing the most ridiculous things. And every day I spend in that place I had absolutely cleared my mind of any negative thoughts and I owe it all to this special place, which was to me, Querencia.