Pieces of a life

These are some of the bits and pieces I inherited from my grandmother recently. There were also two beautiful rings and The Collection, which I'll tell you about another day. Some of these things, like the teaset and the painting, were specifically left to me, and others were just bits and pieces I collected from her place. Mini had an amazing collection of handbags, and some incredibly beautiful clothes, which my cousin and I divided up...it was a strange feeling but we knew Mini would have been delighted that we were keeping and loving her things rather than just throwing them away. I have also been lucky enough to inherit some beautiful chairs and a couple of other fantastic pieces of furniture - I'll show you some time soon!

The teaset is very special to me. It is eggshell china, so it is incredibly fine (actually transparent) and delicate. Mini bought it in Japan and absolutely treasured it. One day, years and years ago, I commented on how beautiful it was (I just love the little scenes of snow-topped trees!) and ever since she had told me that one day it would be mine. She also told me specifically about one of the rings she left me - a pearl - only a few days before she died. She said it was her favourite ring and she and my grandfather had had such a fun time buying it at auction. I wish now that I had asked her more about it - and about so many other things - because as it turned out, that was my last chance.

The painting I knew nothing about until after Mini had died and we were going through her will - she left and incredibly detailed will, with lots of specific items left to individuals - and this painting was left to me. I really love it, though, and now have it sitting on top of the ladder in our living room.

I feel so lucky to have these things in my life now, not just because they are so beautiful but because they hold so much meaning. It makes me happy to look at them and think of Mini because she, like me, was truly a lover of beautiful objects.

PS I'm sorry you didn't hear anything from me yesterday - I had a really busy morning here and then was laid up on the couch in the afternoon with a very upset stomach :( All better today, though!

PPS The Subi Street Festival is on tonight! It's always a lot of fun, and although Mr Sparrow isn't technically a part of it, we will be open till 9pm so come on down and say hello :)