Last weekend my family held a 90th birthday celebration for my grandmother, or Grammy, out in Texas. Vlad and I were supposed to be there, but a snowstorm in New York had other plans. All the airports shut down on Friday, and our flight was cancelled. None of the alternatives would get us there in time for the party, so we stayed home. I am still pretty bummed to have missed it, but we’re planning another trip soon to make up for it.
I credit Grammy for a lot of my creative streak. She got it from her mom and passed it down to mine as well. Whenever I get down to visit she gives me a tour of what she’s been painting or quilting or making into greeting cards. The River House is full of old treasures, perfect for collaging and stitching. Papa Broun, my great-grandpa, built this place and Grammy grew up in it. It’s been home to lots of family members over the years, and now my parents are living there.
One of my favorite things to do in Texas is to sit on the River House porch with Grammy in her rocking chair and a glass of red wine and listen to her tell stories. My family moved around a lot, but the River House and Grammy always gave me a sense of rootedness and of home. She has an appreciation for good food, good wine, and a good tall tale—and loves bringing people together to share them.
For her birthday I made her this pin cushion:
And here’s me, mom, and Grammy at my wedding nearly 5 (!) years ago: