Ice Cream

Life has a funny way of taking over.  As adults, we all become so consumed by the responsibilities of life that we forget the incredible joy lurking in the little things.  Take ice cream, for example.  Remember when a cup of ice cream cream had this kind of effect:

Of course, being able to sit next to this little person in this moment tends to bring on a whole different kind of joy.

Made with Love

From the day I was born, my grandmother made things for me.  She made dresses, afghans, Christmas stockings, sweaters, slippers and even doll clothes for me.  If the head of my favorite doll was coming away from it's body, Grandma fixed it.  If I decided less than a week before the school dance that I wanted to go, Grandma sew up a custom dress in my favorite color. If I needed six mini aprons made for my class, Grandma made it happen.  In my mind, there wasn't anything she couldn't do.

Eventually, Grandma's eyes made it harder and harder for her to make the things she loved for the people she loved.  I began to fear that each handmade item would be the last one I would receive from her.  That day finally came.  It was almost as hard on me as it was on her. 

Now, those items that brought joy to me can bring joy to others.  I recently pulled out the aprons she made for my class to use for cooking projects.  The kids were so excited to have aprons that were their size.  When I shared that my grandmother made them, one little girl said, "Your grandma did a good job!  These are very comfy and comfy is good!"

I am fortunate to have so many of her handmade items, particularly those that allow me to wrap myself in the warmth of her love on cold winter days.