Memories...

While on Christmas break I have been digging through my closet and desk drawers and hope chest, just reminiscing through my things. Simply enjoying the fact that I have time! While doing so I ran across a memory book that my Grandma Jean had given me almost two years ago. I found a cozy spot and began turning the pages and looking at the pictures.

The book begins with our family heritage, and then goes into detail about who her grandparents and parents were. Stories of growing up, and how she met my grandpa, stories of simple, daily life.

She wrote of lessons she learned from her mom, my great-grandmother: “… she taught me to complete what you start. Don’t do only half a job.”

I loved how she described my great-grandpa: “ I always picture him in his milk truck taking the milk bottles to his customers. These were the best days of my child hood, when we delivered the milk together… and we would go fishing together and we wouldn’t have to catch a fish, just being together was enough.” That is so true, is it not? Just being together…

The book ends with a letter from her, to me. I was so encouraged by it and strengthened by her words. Here are a few nuggets of wisdom she shared:

“Do not become cynical, but always remember to show love. It is not the people, but the sin we hate.”

“Keep your focus on Him, and He will give you the strength you need to face the day.”

“Traditions I hope you will continue… a home filled with love and butterflies.”

In the back of the book there is a pink envelope filled with pictures and newspaper articles she had written about us grandkids back in her journalist days.

I was so honored that she trusted me with these old, family heirloom photographs.

The milk truck that my Grandma talked about...

Playing dress up.

My Great-Grandpa and with my Grandma.

Anyway....