A Grayer Place...

My sisters and I found ourselves making a beeline to the antique stores this weekend.  I suppose to anyone outside our family, shopping after having just lost our grandfather so unexpectedly might seem shallow.  But to us, antiques were the most immediate way to feel closer, not only to the grandfather suddenly no longer with us, but also to our grandmother and the rest of our family currently gathered in Vermont awaiting us.  

I spent a lot of time examining the influences my grandfather has had on me this weekend, and time and again I came back to my love of antiques being one of the biggest.  I am comforted to realize that this love permeates absolutely every aspect of my life. From the lamp that has been on my bedside table for as long as I can remember to the ring that Nathan will put on my finger at our wedding, Papa's love of these objects has clearly become my passion as well.

On trips and in life, Nana and Papa always made time for the treasure hunts.  They taught their grandchildren to see that every antique has a purpose and a story that adds to its value. Papa's interest in antique lighting inspired us to see the history in every old find.   His passion inspired all of us to find ways to do what we love and to surround ourselves with things that others have loved.

It is because of him that I know how to tell the difference between hand blown and factory made glass.  It seems a small thing really, but it represents all those times he took the time to share his interest with me.  All those times I tiptoed through his shop, trying my best to be graceful, while asking about oil lamps, shades, and electric wiring come to life every time I run my finger across the bottom of an old lamp. 
 
My grandfather was a fascinating man.  He was resourceful and determined.  He was talented and creative, and he was brave and proud.  And the world will be a grayer place without him in it.