My Progress

Friday, January 14, 2011

What we bring with us...

Not even sure what brought it up, but I was telling my husband about my southern Grandmother and that one of my best memories of her was this saying "pretty is as pretty does". She was a true lady who never wore slacks until she was well into her 70's...can you believe that? My other Grandma raised 8 kids (my Grandfather died at 40) and she did it on her own! It was the mid-sixties and my Grandma had to deal with being a young widow, go out and get a job, and take care of 8 children between the ages of 20 and 4 months old! My Mom and Dad's wedding was two weeks after his death - can you imagine getting married that soon after suddenly losing your Father? That whole story and time is amazing to me...

I have always liked to think (or hope) that maybe I have two qualities thanks to them. From my southern Grandma, I would choose her grace; I love the idea of being a lady no matter what life throws at you - to handle it all with grace and dignity would be awesome. This one is probably pretty obvious given her story, but from my maternal Grandma I like to think I have her strength. That ability to take on life and deal with whatever is thrown your way, no complaining or whining...just doing it and living life.

Two women with great influence on me have created who I am today.

3 comments:

andi said...

What wonderful ladies they sound like! Now, I'm getting of the computer to call my grandma. From her, I know I got my spit-fire. :-)

Anonymous said...

What a nice story. Your grandmother would be proud. I definitely think you have her strength. I mean, look at what you are doing. Grace is also a wonderful thing to have - grace and dignity. Your post made me think...handle everything with dignity :-)

Polar's Mom said...

Great matriarchs are definitely models to live by!

Polar's Mom
www.polarspage.blogspot.com