Blog Post #1

      I think a lot of people don't realize how special one little item can be and just look at them throughout their house as just things they're used to seeing. As I sat here and thought about it I realized there are so many heirlooms in my house that I could choose that are special to my family and I. We have things such as my great-grandma's china from her wedding, jewelry from my mother's great-great-grandma, and even very old photographs in frames that are very special to every one of us. There is one thing, though, that is especially special to me because it is all mine and has been passed down for a very long time now; a silk handkerchief.  The day I was born this silk, white handkerchief was given to me by my grandparents. My grandmother, Linda, received this from her grandmother, and she received it from her grandmother, and so on. She even has a very long story to go along with it that she told me when I was younger. Although I can't remember it now, it will be something I will have her tell me again in the future. 

       I have this container in my basement that is filled with all of the things that have always been very special to me. Ever since I was little, I have referred to it as my "special box." My mom started storing things in it when I was a baby and while growing up I used to look at it every couple of years to remember what was in it. I would get super happy each time remembering all of the things people gave me or I had once played with. I always saw this handkerchief, but obviously since I was little it didn't mean very much to me because I never knew exactly what it was or what it was supposed to be used for.  As I continued to get older I came to the realization more and more as to why this simple piece of cloth was so special to all of these women. This holds a lot of sentimental value and I know it will definitely be passed on several more times for years to come.

     When women get married it is well known for the bride to need, "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue." It is supposed to give them good luck on their wedding day.  My grandmother gave this to me so I am able to consider it my "something old."  Even after having a family of your own, your "something old" is supposed to symbolize continuity to show that you will still be connected and close with your family now. Not as many people use this tradition today, but I know for sure that it will be something I will take part in. Knowing I have this for my special day makes me extremely happy and thankful since it came from my grandma that I am very  close with. Since it means this much to me, it excites me to possibly have the chance to give it to my own granddaughter.