I had a dream this morning about Ms. Rose, my grandmother on my father’s side of the family.  She was really special to me.  She was tall, resourceful, strikingly beautiful, and one of the best cooks I know.  I learned so much from her!  Following is a picture in her youth (I don’t know the age).

Ms. Rose (Davis) Kennedy

In my dream, I was trying to figure out how to fix the elastic waist on my pants.  I was at a loss of what to do so I asked Ms. Rose.  She told me to fold the waistline, stitch it, and feed the elastic through the opening with a safety pen on one end. Once she told me that, it was so clear.  I was thinking, “That makes sense!”

Not only did she teach me how to sew, but she taught me how to crochet, knit, and iron.  Based on this knowledge, I was able to crochet a purse, knit a scarf, and make a few clothes for myself.

This dream reminded me of my father and how he liked his shirts and pants creased a certain way.  He made me do this for him as he got ready for work.  I’m sure he learned this from his Mom, Ms. Rose.  To this day, after I clean my clothes, I remove them from the dryer, put them on hangers, iron and starch as necessary before hanging them in my closet.

I don’t know why I was thinking about Ms. Rose this morning, but I do know that I miss her.  I miss the love and the closeness I felt when I achieved what she was trying to impart.  I enjoyed just being with her.

Ms. Rose is just one example of a family member that took time out of their busy day to pass on knowledge and traditions.  So, what have I learned from my ancestors?  I learned how to survive  – how to cook, clean, work, save, socialize, negotiate, enjoy, protect, protest, and love to name a few.  As you spend time this holiday season, don’t forget to give your family some of the most precious gifts of all – your time and traditions!

Between The Dashes