Precious Memories.....

Maybe it's because we are moving and starting a new chapter in our lives

Maybe it's because in doing so I have uncovered so many little pieces left behind by my grandparents and the flood of memories and emotions tied to those treasures

Whatever the reason, I have found myself deeply missing the two very special angels who were my grandmothers. They both passed away within the last year and although I know they are healthy, happy and reunited with Christ and so many loved ones that went on before them, the selfish little girl in me sometimes wants them back. I understand this is a normal emotion and it will pass and probably resurface again from time to time.....

My grandmothers were Bobby Jean Tucker (Grandmama, in photo above) and Bobbie Lea Mackey (Mama Bobbie, pictured below with me and mom). My sister and I share their middle names.

They were both incredibly strong women, enduring both physical and emotional pain with grace and courage. They shared a love of gardening which thankfully they passed down to their grandaughters as well :)

One was an excellent southern cook. One preferred to throw a pizza in the oven and color or play dolls with us while it cooked.

One was a skilled seamstress, quilter and crocheter. (is that a word?) One could paint anything, draw anything and play the piano by ear.

One was blessed with a kind, loving husband of 45 years. One was not so fortunate. Her fiance was killed fighting in WWII. She married a few years later but was left behind to raise her children alone. Not by death this time though....by an abusive alcoholic that broke her heart and abandoned his family.

One was strong and healthy well into her 80's. One was burdened with health problems for almost 20 years.

Both loved flea markets....one preferring to scour the "junk" and discover the story behind every piece she found....one preferring to find a new variety of plant or flower she hadn't seen and eat fried green tomatoes.

Both had beautiful handwriting. One wrote long letters to everybody she loved....oh how I cherish those sweet letters. One wrote out her favorite family recipes and slipped them in our Christmas and wedding  presents.

I am so thankful to have been blessed with such amazing women in my life and to have inherited even an ounce of their wisdom, talents, passion and strength.

It is for them that my little jewelry business is named. Not their actual names. One is a nickname given by an aunt. One is a name that is testament to a deep abiding love and faith.

If you're still here after all this rambling, thanks for hanging in there with me. For listening to the memories of an emotional woman/child.

blessings to you and your loved ones

xoxo

jenny