Barbies

While Barbies seem to be on a wild craze again (thanks to the newly released movie), I fondly remember my love of them when I was a young girl.
I still have my original Midge, Skipper, Barbie, Ken, and I think, PJ. I also have my black, single-doll case stuffed with handmade and knitted clothes, store-bought ensembles, and handmade blankets and pillows lovingly made by Mom or Gram.
The Barbie treasures most precious to me is the carefully packed away collection of doll jewelry made by my best buddy, Gram.
When I was 10, my parents found out I had severe allergies and asthma. Some emergencies necessitated me staying in an oxygen tent in the hospital pediatric unit, others I convalesced on the living room couch in my home.
My parents often called Gram and Gramp to travel from Indianapolis to West Lafayette to play nursemaid while they worked.
I loved the one-on-one time with Gram sitting by the couch with a TV tray playing cards with me or knitting one of her afghan blankets.
One day she placed a box on the tray and opened it to reveal some of her beautiful costume jewelry. Shades of blues, mauve, gold, and green necklaces.
“Tudie, I have an idea for you to help me with. We’re going to make Barbie necklaces. Let’s carefully cut these strands apart and sort the beads to use the smallest we can find. Then we’ll string them, and I’ll tie them off.”
I remember being so surprised at the offer because Gram often wore the necklaces with her fashionable dresses. Our masterpieces wiled my long days on the couch away more quickly.
As I share this with you my eyes still tear up at the memory of Gram, a distinguished, blue-eyed, and white-haired woman who thought of and loved me more than her baubles.
What treasures can you share with your loved ones or friends today?

With Joy, 
​Susan