Dishing up memories

Several years ago, I came to a stark realization. After thirty years of marriage and countless meals, my everyday dishes were completely worn and cracked. After surveying my kitchen cabinets, I made an executive decision. The time had come for new tableware.

Being the good steward of household items that I am, my old pottery was boxed up and sent with my son who was ready for a one-bedroom lease. I felt good about this decision because every “first apartment” should be furnished, but not too perfectly.

This left me with the task of picking out new plates.

“Do we even need new dishes?’ my husband asked.

“Do you want to eat all your meals on a paper towel?” I answered.

So, it was settled. I would get new dinnerware, but to be fair to my spouse, I would be frugal. After all, we did have multiple children in different schools with varying tuition rates. My hunt for new tableware began at a local antique store.

Sitting on a dusty, forgotten table in a corner of a vintage shop, a stack of kitchenware caught my eye! The colors were lovely - pinks, blues and yellows. Given the bargain price, I took the set home immediately.

Only after I started to enjoy cheerful, old-school design did I realize why I had fallen in love with those particular dishes. The pattern reminded me of my grandmother.

My paternal grandmother passed away when I was a child. My memories of her are scattered, but she was a gentle, generous woman who loved all things floral. In my mind’s eye, I can still see her pink kitchen.

I have often pulled the dinner plates from the cupboard and found myself reflecting on my grandmother. She was born in the 1890’s, married in the Victorian era and started her family during The Great War. She had my father in the height of the Depression and then endured the uncertainty of World War II. Her life was not easy, but her kind spirit never lessened.

2020 has been a year of many home cooked meals for our family. Every day, the plates and bowls that I use bring me joy and remind me of the importance of resilience. Despite momentary hardships, past generations survived and even thrived in uncertain times, and I can too.

So, I’m setting the table tonight with a smile. I am counting my blessings. If my grandmother was here, she would approve of my attitude as much as my dishes!