Knitting...

While Grandma was young growing up in Norway she learned the fine art of knitting from her mother. She made hats for my father and others also. She was so clever with this skill, each and every hat fit just right.  She made me a lovely dark red scarf that I still have and use. Good memories....

The purple violet box....

The Purple Violet Box was a very special piece of everyday life for Grandma, Kristina and myself. We would pass this little box( actually a violet soap box) back and forth between us filled with little treasures. Sometimes a quarter, some candy, a photo, a pencil, a small toy...whatever it was, it was an instant treasure. Always with great meaning to all three of us...another good memory.  By Sandra.

Uff Da and Uff a may....

These were two of Grandma Emma's favorite sayings... Sometimes used with humor and other times with frustration. I always remember her using these phrases. She knew when to use Uff Da in conversation. Interesting and fun at the same time!

Cast Aluminum Skillet...

Most of you remember that Grandma had a unique skillet ( frying pan). It was made of Cast Aluminum. She would make pancakes almost every morning for herself and Grandpa. If you happened to be there at breakfast, she made more pancakes. A very nice memory! I still love pancakes, butter and maple syrup..great mornings.

Pancakes...

Grandma Emma served many Pancakes over the years...She carefully placed the right amount of batter in the frying pan or flat skillet. Let each pancake bubble on each side to a soft golden brown and serve with butter topped with maple syrup...so tasty and good.  A good breakfast from a wonderful time in history.

A Scissors to Lend...

While living in Iowa my Grandmother and Grandfather met many wonderful people. Grandma Emma had a favorite memory of a time when she lent a stranger her good scissors that she had with her from Norway. He approached her and told that several of the men in the "hobo" camp had an opportunity to work locally if they had haircuts. He said " I have nothing to pay with, but you can have my watch until I return your scissors". Grandma Emma traded the scissors for the watch. As he left, she wondered if he would ever bring her treasured scissors  back. They next day he did just that. He told that she had saved those men, all had gotten work. He thanked her, she returned his watch, then left. Never saw him again....but  a small kind gesture she had shared in the community at a time in history when it was often difficult to find work.  This was part of her special journey...good lesson here.

Grandma's chair....

Grandma Emma had a favorite chair in the later years in Mukilteo...It was so comfortable and cozy. Fit her so well. But what really made that chair work for her was the small foam pellet filled foot stool. She always sat with her legs up...not in the down position. Turns out this was helpful...kept the circulation better. Grandma was a very wise woman....