She stayed for a time, but relations between mother and daughter became strained, and the boys' behavior suffered, Jimenez said. Jimenez asked her to leave and had to obtain a restraining order to keep her away. Their mother still calls the boys occasionally. Committed to the children Taking on the roles of mother and father to her grandsons has been difficult for Jimenez, who is divorced. Her days are long, and her pressures are many.
Money is always tight.
Her apartment is simply furnished, and she doesn' t own a car. But as long as her bills are paid and food is on the table, Jimenez said she will be happy. She helps the boys with their homework as best she can. She is from Puerto Rico, so English is not her native tongue. When Larry started having trouble at school, Jimenez met with his teachers and with their help arranged for him to attend an after-school homework lab three days a week.