As I think of all the women who influenced my life, I am reminded of one who is no longer here with us. Nora Stewart, is my Great Grandmother. That makes her my Mom's (Katherine Payne), Mother's (Janet Morgan) Mom. Try saying that five times fast!
Grandma Stewart was born in 1915 and grew up in rural West Virginia. Not only did she grow up in a different time, West Virginia definitely has a different culture than the suburban culture in which I live now. She didn't graduate high school, never had a job, and didn't drive a car. However, she always knew just what to say and raised the family that I am happy to be part of.
When I was really young, I was always very excited to get to visit Grandma Stewart. She would begin feeding us as soon as we got to her house. We had saltine crackers with cheese, "special meat" (kielbasa cut into slices to fit on the crackers), Reese Cups, Coke, popsicles with vanilla ice cream in the middle, and banana milkshakes. She would fill us then flick our bellies and say, "Yep, full as a tick". She was also known in the family for being and EXCELLENT cook.
As I got older, and after Grandpap Stewart passed away in 1993, I had the wonderful opportunity of living with Grandma Stewart. We didn't always see eye to eye, being from two different generations, but I cherish the memories of the time that I spent with her. My friends also spent a lot of time with her. It was definitely a privilege for all.
Other than being known as a great cook, Grandma was also know for her superstitions and old wives tales. One that sticks out the most - "if two women make a bed together, one will be pregnant within the year". Another, "if you wash your clothes on New Year's Day, you will wash your life away". I could go on and on. Even though I know that these are old wives tales, I don't want to test and see if they come true!
There is one story that she told me about her childhood that I will never forget. She said when she was a child her family was going into town. She had a dime wrapped up in a "hanky" so that she could buy some candy. By the time she got to town, she had lost her dime. At her funeral, before closing the casket, I placed a handkerchief with a dime inside in her hand. I wanted to be sure she got her candy, wherever she was going.
I encourage each of you to spend some time with all the women who have influenced your life. Be sure to thank them for all that they do.
No comments:
Post a Comment