Treasures from the Past

I adore old things. Things with a history, a story, that connect us to our families. Watching my girls play on this blanket is very sentimental. Jason's mother made this blanket for his cousin after his cousin was born. Jason's mother passed-away almost 22 years ago. He has spent more of his life without her than with her. I feel nostalgic looking at this blanket for a woman I never got to meet, but whom I know through stories and through the man she molded. I wonder what she would think of this little family we have concocted. She would think her son was an incredible father and that his family is so lucky to have him.

On my side of our tree, we have acquired the dishes that I grew up with. I'm so excited to now own these. My mother was holding onto them for no apparent reason after finally purchasing a new set a couple years ago. She offered to let us have them. I love how sturdy and simple these dishes are, but mostly I love their story. Back in Christmas 1980, my dad wanted to surprise my mom with something special, something she really wanted. So late at night, he and a family friend set up a new dining table and chairs dressed with placemats, napkins, and this dish set! My mom was completely floored when she awoke on Christmas Day to this incredible & sneaky gift. They used these dishes for over 25 years!! I hope we can hold onto them for that long. *They still use the same dining table!*