Packing Up Memories

The mid-west was both nice and cold by all accounts this week.

I had never seen my Grammie’s home buried under a foot of white pristine snow. It seemed appropriate that the cold weather came with the cold hard task of packing up her precious belongings.  That is where I spent the last 5 days.

Was it difficult; painful and full of tears? Yep.  It definitely was.

Upon arrival, I plopped down on her loveseat.  I felt that any moment she would come from around the corner with a giggle and sparkle in her eye.  I even caught myself wanting to holler, “Grammie where are you toots?”  I didn’t.  Instead, tears landed on folded hands. “I know.  I feel the same” said my mom sitting beside me.

Long exhale.

We stood and slowly walked to her bedroom. I paused at her closet. Her fashionably feminine wardrobe brought on even bigger waves of emotion.  The pink dress from my wedding, Christmas sweater I photographed her in, and her favorite black pant suit all lingered on hangers.  Shoes in clear boxes, knitting bags, and first aid kits all neatly organized resurrected images of my Grammie.  The tears could not be stopped.

She was gone.  It hurt.  Crying was the only pacifier.

I know.  I can hear you.  Kathleen, this a nice bloggy place meant for inspiration and delightful finds.  Why do you bring the sad?

I suppose I wanted to share, despite the difficult agenda, that the week was okay and at times, enchanting.  Drawers and cabinets became delights; full of treasures and memories that made me laugh and love her even more.

Hummel figurines, cans of macadamia nuts, and bottles of Tiffany perfume, all in twos and threes.  Never can get too much of a good thing. Her personal belongings and how she kept them were touching and at the same time inspiring. So inspiring, as I am traveling at 40,000 feet, I think of how I need to get my home in the OC in order.

It was healing as I flipped through her hand written notes on how to make wine. She still had a jug in the pantry.   I found photos of her and Grandpa hosting all kinds of parties.  I even found a 3″ rubber-band ball in the laundry room (Remember that she was a young adult during the depression). They all made my heart smile.

Her home and how she lived was so special. I’m so glad I could pay homage to it and be inspired to make my home a little more homey and organized.

That is the inspiration she and I bring you today.

And thanks Grammie for making my trip so warm and cozy.  Miss you toots.

Have a good weekend friends,