Feeling Nostalgic

Today H and I will be spending most of the day traveling. We've had an amazing stay with my folks. And for some reason, this trip has me feeling especially sentimental and nostalgic.

My sweet grandmother passed away four years ago next month. Growing up, my grandparents lived a block away from us. Their house was right across the street from our elementary school. I would often stop in to see Grandma after school; and I was always rewarded with a delicious ice cream treat, or some fresh baked cookies. I could go on for hours about my wonderful grandma and all the fond memories I have of her. Her loss was really hard on me, even more so because two months later, we moved to California. I felt like I left a part of my heart here with her. So it's a bit of an understatement to say that I miss her dearly.

I was completely surprised the other night when my mom pulled out a few pieces of Grandma's jewelry for me. I actually started crying when I saw the jewelry because it means so much to me. And the pieces I got are ones I can actually remember her wearing. She is such a special woman in my life, and it means so much to me to have a little piece of her with me.

And this trip, H was so excited to see his great-grandparents. {I have two grandparents still living, both of which live here}. So it was really fun for me to see him actually remember them and call them by name. I hope he always remembers his great-grandparents. To add to my nostalgia, the subject of my great-grandparents kept coming up throughout the week. It was so much fun to hear stories of them and to see things that belonged to them. What a neat experience it is to learn more about the people who are, in some way, a part of who I am today.

Well, those are just a few of the thoughts swirling about in my head this very moment. I've got plenty of stories and adventures to share from our trip. So thanks for letting me get sentimental for a minute. It's really an uplifting experience to learn more about your family, and to love them with your whole heart...those who are still with us, and those who have passed on.

{photo from here, via here}