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My grandparents are in my thoughts today.
They were salt of the earth people: very proud of their heritage and work ethic.
They suffered through the Great Depression and saved their family farm through sheer dedication, sacrifice, and hard work.
They both worked hard their entire life.
My grandfather built houses, and raised cattle and crops. My grandmother’s children were her pride and joy. She was the most loving woman I have ever known, but yet she was incredibly firm. She taught all of her children good manners, including how to give and how to graciously receive. She was also so proud of keeping a warm, clean, welcoming home. I remember her telling me once when I was a kid, “Just because you’re poor doesn’t mean you have to be dirty.”
Concerning money, they grew wealthy over time. My grandfather loved to take trips to Vegas, Branson, and once to Disneyland. He died a rich man. My grandmother always seemed to be so fearful of being that broke ever again. I know she never liked to spend very much on frivolities — I remember when she was in her 70’s, she worried over buying a new pair of shoes. At Christmas, she would always ask for gifts to charity.
I can’t help but think of them when I see Charlie Brown Christmas trees. I’m convinced that their very first Christmas tree must have looked very similar.
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Hoping you all have a very merry Christmas, creating new memories and remembering old ones.
See you all again after Christmas.
Vickie says
It kind of puts things into perspective to remember the simple Christmas celebrations of our ancestors, don’t you think? My grandmother’s stories were very similar. She and her sisters walked along the railroad tracks to pick up coal that had fallen off the cars to help heat their house. They were excited to receive an orange and some nuts for their Christmas present, yet, they always spoke fondly of their humble beginnings. Today I will remember Christmas past and start a new tradition, too. Merry Christmas, Kim!
Kim says
Thank you so much for sharing your remembrances of your grandmother, Vickie! I loved reading it. Merry Christmas!
Rita C says
Great share today, Kim. Merry Christmas.
Kim says
Merry Christmas to you as well, Rita!
wendy says
My mother and her four siblings grew up in the 40’s. As Vickie said above, she was very happy to receive an orange and maybe a small toy or bracelet in her stocking. One year the five of them got a bicycle to share. Simple joys!
Merry Christmas to you and your family, Kim!
(Hurray for Charlie Brown trees!)
Kim says
Can you imagine how children would react today if they got an orange and a bicycle to share? I can’t at all . . . but it makes me respect my elders so much more. Merry Christmas to you as well, Wendy!
Cindy says
What lovely memories to share…thank you Kim. I wonder sometimes if that’s not why vintage has grown so much in popularity…a desire to return to the simpler things in life…and live within our means. Have a Merry Christmas…
Kim says
I totally agree, Cindy! I truly think that the reason vintage appeals to so many is that there was a purity to their lifestyle and their beliefs . . and everything was handmade . . . and I think that people who love vintage want those things in their life. Like you said: simplicity and getting back to what really matters. Merry Christmas!
Heather says
Kim, Merry Christmas to you, and thank you for the past year of sharing, I’ve enjoyed.
Kim says
Thank you, Heather. It means a lot to me that you have followed along all year. Merry Christmas to you as well!
Laurel Stephens says
Merry Christmas, Kim!