Elegance is the only beauty that never fades-Audrey Hepburn
I chose this as my first post to acknowledge my Gram, Dorothy Eloise Mattin, the most stylish well-put-together woman I knew!
One of my middle names is Dorothy, and not only do I share her name, but I feel I inherited her sense of style, as well. From her Levis jean jacket to the fur coat my grandfather gave her in the 60’s, she wore everything well. Both of which I am so very fortunate to have in my possession and wear constantly.
I was lucky enough to have had my grandparents live across the road from me and both be such meaningful people in my life. They were like a second set of parents as they were only a handful over 40 years older than me and we spent so much time with them. Aside from my parents, they were 2 of the most influential people in helping me become the woman I am today. For that, I can’t thank them enough...
Although 2020 was not an ideal year for most, I can honestly say, it was not my worst! The best part of my year was one year ago today, sitting in the Cowichan hospital visiting my Gram. To say I am extremely grateful that I got to spend an hour or so with one of the most influential people in my life is an understatement. Did I know that it was going to be the last time that I would see her? Maybe I had a feeling that it was...Did she know that her time would soon come to an end? I think she did…
I believe that some people know when their time is near, and my Gram was most likely one of them. She had started to give away her most precious keepsakes that previous fall. I know that having received her beloved charm bracelet the Thanksgiving before made my heart smile and tears cloud my eyes.
I got to hear the stories behind every charm my grandfather had given her. My favourite was the ring that he had given her in 1946 with the words, “I am going to marry you!” That and the royal flush charm he gave her in Reno when he taught her how to play poker:)
We lost my Grama on May 18th this past year. It was her time...And as sad as that is, I am somewhat relieved that at least her body doesn’t hurt anymore. But most importantly, her heart stopped hurting as well. For you see, she outlived 2 of her sons...one being my father...and the love of her life, my Grandad, of nearly 70 years. I truly believe she died of a broken heart. (Sigh)
Time heals they say...and this I know all too well, and in time I know my heart will heal too!
Love is timeless and while you still have the time to say it to those closest to you...May you say it with all of your heart and then some!
To all the loved ones lost...May you celebrate their lives and hold the precious memories you have of them close to your heart ♥️
XX
Danielle
“When we lose someone we love, we must learn not to live without them but to live with the love they left behind” -Anonymous
