Grandma Emma....good life.

Grandma Emma often spoke of all the kind and good people she was lucky to meet in her life. She lived with less stress than most of us do now. I feel that part of her long life was in her genetics, careful life choices and less stress. She walked everyday, weather permitting of course, ate well and didn't stress so much. For the most part she was happy. A formula for life that worked for her. Maybe there are some good ideas here! Two cups of coffee, two cookies after breakfast... yes, sounds good to me...

Mothers Day thoughts...

Grandma Emma told a story of her mother....Anne was her name. She would always have her knitting projects ready and waiting in every room of the house. So when she would take a rest and sit down she would not waste any time. Knitting socks, mittens, scarves and what was needed for those cold days of winter in Norway. Amazing, multitasking  has always been with us.  Happy Mothers Day to all, reflect and remember.

Happy Birthday Grandma Emma...

Grandma Emma was lucky to be born in the beauty of Spring. The flowers, the tree blossoms, blue sky and the renewal of the earth.  Happy Birthday Grandma Emma!

Grandma and Spring...

In early March Grandma Emma would start to be out in the garden more. She loved to see the first blooms of the crocus, daffodils and tulips. It was the renewal of life in her garden. Slowly the roses, flowering shrubs and trees would start to have their lovely blooms. She would take her favorite chair out into the warm sunshine and watch all of those precious plants bloom in all their splendor. This is my favorite season also. Everyday is a treat with flowers in the garden.

Christmas from the past. Big Grandma Emma.

Christmas has been forever a time for memories, family and friends. Over the years one has boxes of ornaments, baking cookies and fruitcake. All holiday traditions... home for the holidays ...Grandma always liked that best. She was raised with Christmas eve being the day of a nice dinner and a church service. Out in the cold of winter, even snow and a candle in the window, peaceful and calm the way it was in Norway so many years ago.  Memories in the making...Happy Holidays from the past.

Gold store box....filled with ribbon and wrapping paper.

Over the years Grandma Emma had saved ribbon and wrapping paper in a large gold box with a shiny brocade lid. She kept it in the hall closet next to the fireplace. She had saved small and large pieces of lovely wrapping papers. Curling ribbon, flat bows and tissue paper. All were ready to use at a moments notice. This was special to her...from a time in history when women had to be prepared for anything. This box showed her willingness to be ready...ready for all that came her way.  A nice box of treasures...

Christmas Cards...

When December arrived Grandma Emma always looked forward to receiving Christmas cards and letters from family and friends. Everyday she would walk to the mailbox just to see what would arrive and from whom. Some would be in English and some in Norwegian. This went on the entire month with wonder and surprise. As well as several visits for an hour or two, with greetings for the upcoming holiday. Often we would venture out in the car for a quick trip to look at the neighborhood lights. A true delight to see what is special about the winter holidays. She was happy to have January 1st ring in the new year and said that spring was just around the corner. Another favorite time of the year.  Happy Holidays....