Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Marie



A man reflects on
the first impression



via


that she



via



via



via

 
has made on him.



via



Stalled breath captures

a wanderer's prayer

at her first encounter

with 

a wild thing  



tumblr



and the hour that you 

laid eyes on 

your child




  
it was




But for me 

that moment struck

when I was old enough 

to reach up 

at her photo on the console 

where she sat 

for years.



castles crowns and cottages


 

It was a face that time forgot


castles crowns and cottages




but my mother's stories
   

kept her alive.



castles crowns and cottages

 
I had always wondered, however

 if my grandmother

Marie


castles crowns and cottages


would 

have loved 

me



1978


at first sight.


That first impression can make  

 such





But I loved you 

the first time 

I saw you


castles crowns and cottages


and 


I always will love you, Marie.

 

135 comments:

Ashley cramp said...

Oh Oh Oh.....
sigh sigh....
I'm simply lost for words,
Here's two....
gorgeous, just gorgeous
Daisy x

Unknown said...

A beautiful tribute to your lovely Grandmother...the photos are wonderful, I especially like the one of her in the hat...her eyes look absolutely beautiful.
And you dear Anita...1978...wow...you look gorgeous...there are similarities between the two of you...there is a delicate strength...she would simply have adored you.
Catherine
xx

Pura Vida said...

oh my my my dear one...this struck such a deep inner chord. My grandmother who I met once was named Grace Marie (pronounced Mariah like the wind) I was going to name my daughter Rachel and a few days before her birth my sister told me she dreamed I had a girl and I named her Grace Marie..I asked where she got that name and she told me..it was our grandmother's name.

And so she became...and I loved her the first time I saw her

A Tale of Two Cities said...

What a strikingly beautiful woman your grandmother was--if we could only turn back the hands of time for just a day to capture all the stories our beloved ancestors could share!

Anonymous said...

Anita, love, what a special tribute and on a most perfect month. You had me at that opening quote, but the faces in these photographs-- especially the gorgeous girl in her winter coat :)--are simply priceless. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
As always, thank you for the magnificent inspiration.
XOXO's

Jane and Lance Hattatt said...

Hello Anita:
Sometimes it happens gradually, creeping up without one even noticing, sometimes it happens like fireworks exploding, sometimes it happens when one least expects......but always love is a wonderful thing!

How beautifully you have expressed your love for your grandmother here.

Woodside Park said...

Dear Anita -

What a special tribute to your beautiful grandmother, Marie! I love the old photos - what treasures!! Thank you for sharing them with us. And is that you in 1978? So pretty and such joie de vivre :) I can see you inherited Marie's style! Have a wonderful week.

Hugs,
Loi

Jade said...

What a breathtaking post about LOVE, my dearest Anita!! And what a beautiful woman you grandmother has been.........and you look like her!!!!! Wherever she maybe, she loves you and she´s proud of you!!! My grandmother is still living and the next time I meet her, i´ll ask her for pictures when she was young. Thank you so much for sharing and have a wonderful week,

Love & Hugs Jade

The Dutchess said...

Such a beautiful face...and you look so much like her...And when you ask me ..its not love at first site when you look in your daughters or granddaughters eyes at the first time..its at second site or..i don;t know how many ..its like you look in your own eyes in a different way..and see yourself reflected..LOvely post my dear..xoxo

prince snow farm said...

Oh your grandmother is lovely, and this is such a fitting tribute to her. This beautiful post is a reflection of a time gone by....one that holds such meaning, such trueness, such LIFE! Beautiful. (I'd been meaning to mention you should offer an assorted pack of your lovely cards!)

Rae said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Rae said...

Beautiful ladies! And you do look like her, BEAUTIFUL! So ladylike you two. The last photo is my favorite of your sweet pretty grandmother...she is a doll!
Lovely to see your sweet pretty face also.The music...perfect! Happy day dear heart.
Much love,
Rayanne

Red Rose Alley said...

Dear Anita,
This post warmed my heart so. Your Grandmother is beautiful, and the first picture of her is breathtaking. I got a tear in my eye, dear, because I am missing my mom lately, and what is so special to me is old pictures of our loved ones. They live on in our hearts. I can see something in Marie's eyes and they tell me a story. It looks like she was a deep thinker, a soft but strong woman, which is a very good combination to be. You look so cute in that fur coat!! In 1978 I was dashing the halls in high school hehe. I do love this post today, and I will definately come back for another view of it again. Oh yes, your Grandmother would have loved you, and you live and love through her. She is precious.
A kiss today for you,
~Sheri at Red Rose Alley

tibby said...

Sooooooooooooooooo
Veryyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Beauuuuuuuuuuuutiful!!!!
I'm not romantically loved right now, but...
Thanks
Cristina

Unknown said...

Anita what a lovely tribute and what a stunning lady grandma was. Wonderful pictures. Just a beautiful post. You can see the family resemblance. Have a great day and hope all is well in your world. Have a terrific Tuesday.
Best wishes Molly

Sandy at You May Be Wandering said...

Anita, what a lovely tribute to your beautiful grandmother...I am in Florida visiting with my dear mother...
Time with her is so precious...

Your work is always stunning and pleasing to the eye..thank you! xoxo

Maria said...

~ I fell in love with this post, Lovely Anita....Ooh I wanted to say at the very beginning that those pictures of that beautiful lady are to die for...Then reading on with YOUR beautiful words....I realised she had belonged too you! It seems we are all feeling nostalgic this week, my friend! Thank you for your generous and kind comments always...YOU make my day when You have visited me!
Love Maria x

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

This is such a beautiful post dedicated to your grandmother.....
How are you? Did you have a good weekend?
Did you watch the Superbowl? We saw most of it....
We had a beautiful snowfall over the weekend; it was gorgeous!!!!!
Hope you're having a wonderful week!!!!!
Luv & Hugs,
Shannon

renae said...

That gave me chills ~ Anita ~ awh wonderful, thrilling chills.

How do you do that? youareamazinglyamazing!!!!!!!!!!!

Your post brought memories of my grandparents to my mind, each set of them and the faces of my parents came, too. My parents made sure we knew our great grandparents. I know them all except for my paternal great grandmother. I have photos of all of the others.

I love them all for their pioneer courage of traveling to America for religious freedom and yearning for a better life. One traveled by wagon, others traveled by train, from across the Atlantic on ships from Scandinavia. I love them all. I love you today for helping me bring them back to my mind - today.

(hug)

Sarah said...

What beautiful images of Marie. This is a sweet tribute to your grandmother. I always smile as I read your words, Anita. Lovely! And that young girl in 1978 ~ she is a beauty inside and out..........Sarah

renae said...

I'm not finished commenting. You stir such emotion in your posts that I have to back and remember what I was feeling or what triggered that feeling.

The photo of Marie that is bent and straightened out flat. awh, so precious.

The photo of you as a 1978 young lady. So you and so stylized of the time, too. Super photo.

The child in black and white and hot pink is so adorable. It is so full of love and happiness that only a child's face can render.

Oh - thank you my friend, Thank YOU!

Sabrina said...

aspettavo con ansia i tuo post,un vero inno all'amore e le foto della tua nonna sono davvero incantevoli.come al solito:COMPLIMENTI!!!!

fee @ chipper nelly said...

OMGoodness this is an amazing post my friend. I love the pictures, I love the sentiment, I love the idea of how LIKE her you are!!! Isn't it funny to wonder how we will be remembered. I do worry that when I become the crazy bag lady it might overshadow my more lucid days!!!!
WAaaay tooo long since I've been over here (or anywhere for that matter!)and I've missed your magical musings...love fee x

Lady of the Woods said...

how beautiful is this tribute, and your sentiments so impeccably expressed....everything, beautiful!

It's me said...

That is me !!! when i was a child !!!....i always will love you too my darling friend......always......day by day...minute by minute.....love love love Ria...xxx...

Stan and Jody Gabara said...

What a gorgeous woman your grandmother was. I was so moved by your words. I wish I could write like you, so gifted. Thank you for sharing a wonderful post about Marie. Loved it!

Jody

Down by the sea said...

What a beautiful tribute to your grandmother and the power of love. Your word and pictures bring back memories I can relate too, beautiful.
Sarah x

1 said...

Oh Anita....how beautiful.

I can only imagine how much she would have loved you, even before she laid eyes on you. I firmly believe that the love a grandparent feels begins before the eyes are ever involved.

Your Marie would have certainly been proud.
xo,
Simone

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Dearest Anita,
Your post has touched my heart.. So very emotional and heartfelt.
What a beautiful tribute to dear Marie.. How could she not love you, first sight, and always.. I am sure she is right beside you.
Such beautiful photos, and you my dear friend looked beautiful..
Bisous!
Penny

Marie said...

My Lovely Cousin Anita,
Not only do I love the song, I feel so blessed to have been named after our grandmother. Believe me, if she had met you she would have loved you instantaneously. You are soooo loveable, who could resist you?

This post brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for honoring our grandmother.

Love you much,
Marie Elizabeth

Pam @ over50feeling40 said...

A stunning tribute, Anita!! The words and pictures sent chills and were mesmerizing. I am sure Marie would be moved by this...any woman would.

Bonnie said...

Such a lovely tribute to your grandmother. She is stunning! A beautiful and and touching post.

Rattus Scribus said...

Anita,

The pictures are beautiful, and the fact that you have one of my favorite singer - song writers (Kenny Rankin) seals it for me. But it's your words that captured me here. Lovely, lovely poem.

Love
Ruben

Blessed Serendipity said...

She is a beauty but then so are you. Such lovely pictures. Wishing you a lovely day.

xo Danielle

Lucy@heart and hearth said...

Touching beyond words, Anita. I am in awe of your stunning work!
Lucy~

La Petite Gallery said...

I am in love with your GrandMother.
She is fasinating and beautiful.
You are so lucky to have these gorgeous photo's. You know she is watching over you.
yvonne

Michelle May-The Raspberry Rabbits said...

My dearest friend. I can never get enough of your storytelling. You are so beautiful inside and out. Your grandmother would indeed treasure everything about you. Just like so many of us do.
Lots of hugs. Such a lovely post.

Createology said...

Lovely tribute. Beautiful photos. Sweet words. Thank you for sharing your creative bliss...

Stacey said...

Your grandmother would be oh so thrilled with this heartwarming tribute my beautiful friend! The photographs are so perfect too! I just love how big and bright they are. Beautiful post!

p.s. i would love a portrait of my boys. i will have to hunt for the perfect picture... XX

The French Hutch said...

What a lovely tribute to a lovely woman. Of course yes Anita, your grandmother would have adored you!
Beautiful post dear, perfect song.

~Emily
The French Hutch

Rhissanna said...

How wonderfull and how beautiful, Anita.

And yes, of course she would,.

Rhissanna said...

As for falling in love with writers, I've never been attracted to any other kind of man.

Rhissanna said...

As for falling in love with writers, I've never been attracted to any other kind of man.

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

A wonderful tribute to your beautiful Grandmother and loved everything you so tenderly wrote.
The photos are all so beautiful and love the one of you and know your Grandmother would be so proud of you, dear friend.

Sending hugs and hope you are enjoying the day
Carolyn

Debbie said...

Lovely ...

lisa Moran, Bilancia Designs said...

Beautiful tribute...
Your grandmother was stunning...
I see who you take after.
We've certainly had some deep discussions lately...haven't we?
I do hope you'll consider my idea.
I think it would be a HUGE SUCCESS.
On a creative level, I can only imagine where it would take you.
I will always believe in you...no matter what.
Love you. xo

vicki archer said...

Yes Anita... she would have... xv

YONKS said...

Oh Anita,
Such beautiful images! What a beauty she was, you do indeed take after her, beautiful! I never met any of my grandparents and have no photos to help me imagine. Yours help in forming an image in my mind.
Breathtaking Anita.
Much Love.
Di
X

sagra said...

Anita,
You're looking a bit like your grandma! And it's so nice that you have such beautiful fotos from her. I love tees old fotos but from my own family I have not one.
Have a nice day,
Sabria

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Oh Anita the similarities...what a lovely heartfelt post....I feel the love....I'm sure she would have!

It's nice to know you are just behind me LOL! Enjoy a beautiful Thursday...love Dzintra xoxo

Unknown said...

I can see you in my mind and in my heart sitting there writing this post. I wonder, I wonder, how sweet this time was for you?

Yesterday I taught a creative writing class and our question was...Was your mother a dove, a eagle or a hawk? There is something about sitting at a table with women writing their thoughts out and seeing their 90 year old hands writing their thoughts out. Oddly enough, one of the ladies name was Marie. This gave me such a warm heart this morning. Knowing how we are all connected deep within our hearts.

I loved seeing your way back when picture. Look at that thick hair my dear. And the spunk in your eyes! Makes me smile!

My blog has gone wild, I can't post a single photo. I have a friend working on it. Ho hum...another bad seed in the flower bed in life...a few weeds sneak in once in awhile!

I'm tired!!!! I feel a little lady bug flying from flower to flower and never having a rest! I puttered last weekend for two days straight and thought that would cure me but it seems I have spurts of energy and then it is gone. I've been crafting matchboxes, valentine cards and tags. I participated in a valentine swap and that was fun.

Len is tired too...working bee's but no hours. Len is back to only 30 hrs a week and I'm at 35...CHANGE IS COMING once again, I have a feeling!!!

Miss you much dear one.

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Dear Anita,
Thank you so much for wandering over.
Yes, I did know that.. But I also know she would have loved you very much. Have a magical day dear friend.
Bisous!
Penny

jerilanders said...

I love her face, her attitude, her coyness, her grace. Of course she would have loved you, no doubt, you are very much alike. I never knew my grandmama, how much we have missed. I am glad you have the photographs.

Deborah said...

Oh Anita your grandmother is so beautiful...as you are.
She would have adored you!
How sweet of your Momma to keep her memories alive and share them with you.
I love your dear gentle heart that is filled and overflowing with love.
I love everything about this post and this song is just perfect.
And you do resemble her..Anita...beautiful one.
Warmest hugs my darling friend xoxoxo

All my heart,
Deborah xoxoxooxox

renae said...

hi! Anita, my happy friend.

Thank you for your enthusiasm about the long stockings on my post. I hope you can find those socks in black. Those would be so fun. Hoping your day went well at school and that you can do as you need to this evening. I am sure you are the best substitute teacher. I am sure they love you. Thank you for saying you loved hearing about my family. I have a blessed legacy of wonderful, upright citizens and loving family ahead of me. And ...I have TRIED to raise an equally great one, too.

Have a super evening (harp playing, perhaps?) and nice (hug) to you.

Lynne said...

Oh, Anita.
It is so wonderful that you have this vehicle to transport Marie's beauty and spirit around the world and into our hearts.
She is beautiful and so are you, my friend!
~Lynne
w/L.

http://bitsandpieces-sonja.blogspot.com/ said...

I;m trying to swallow over a HUGE lump in my throat right now, and tears have formed over this one. Marie would DEFINITELY have loved you, right off the bat!! And so do I.

xo

Christel said...

Wow, stunning photos Anita, Your grandmother lives on in you! The resemblance is quite obvious, two beautiful women, both with a strong, yet gentle face, and timeless beauty. I would dearly love to have photos of my grandparents when they were young, but sadly my family put little importance on preserving things like these. Thank you for sharing Anita, the song was a lovely accompaniment to your story! xoxo Christel

Leslie said...

Anita,

It's in the eyes.. and the first glance. A romantic post indeed and wonderful tribute to your beautiful grandmother. And YOU.. You are gorgeous back in the day :) and just as lovely now (inside and out) I adore these older photos. The proper posturing, the clothes, the tasteful make up and the formality that we sometimes skip these days.

Thanks for sharing these precious photos!

xxleslie

Anonymous said...

awh...
Marie...how sweet were you
once upon a time
so very long ago...
and my friend
how could she not
love wonderful you?
xoxo

Purple Flowers said...

A beautiful story about love.
Love of a Grandmother and her granddaughter. She was as much a beauty as you are. You keep her legend alive by talking of her, posting photographs of her and telling the world what a wonderful woman she was.

Unknown said...

Oh that was such a sweet post and song...I am left with such a sweet feeling in my heart...

hi-d said...

Anita!!!!

What a beautiful post!!!!! Your grandmother was absolutely gorgeous. You look so much like her. And YES, she would have loved you. Thanks for sharing these precious photos. I love that one of you as we'll.

Love,
Heidi

Anonymous said...

Oh, this gave me sweet chills. So beautiful and poignant made more sweet because that is how I feel about my paternal grandfather. Everyone have always told me he would have loved me at first sight. But they don't know that I did love him at first sight...that moment when you first realize this person is important in my life. Thank you for your beautiful words.

Ann said...

She is so pretty...
And I'm sure she'll love you
if she gets to see you
that's what grandmothers do
love their grandchildren and spoil them rotten.

I love this tribute to your grandma
such a lovely gesture.

Deana Sidney said...

You remind me of something that has been troubling me lately. We no longer take photos –– at least not solid copies. When we are gone, almost all our images will pass with us and our computers. As a person who loves history and uses the images all the time, I find this tragic.

How remarkable that you have so many magnificent photos of your grandmother who you resemble. Her style just shines in them.

I can't help but think Marie would be terribly proud of you. Wonderful post.

Bohemian said...

Your Grandmother Marie certainly is a Timeless Beauty and I'm absolutely certain she would have fallen madly in Love with you on this side of Time and Eternity... but I'm equally certain she already has on the other side and your Love transcends the earthly realm and Time. Thanks for Sharing such Beautiful Personal Images that have captivated you for years!

Blessings from the Arizona Desert... Dawn... the Bohemian

renae said...

Hahahahaha, Anita! You make me giggle inside when I read your comment. You are so fun!!!!!! Thank you. I started buying at thrift shops out of necessity (didn't have hardly any funds) but now I can't hardly bear to spend at regular stores. I went into a nice medium priced store the other day and about started to hyperventilate at the prices being only $30-40! I had to go. I had to. You make me happy, girlfriend! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

renae said...

Oh ...and, did you recently write more of your book regarding your grandmother? Been meaning to ask you that? If not, you should, too.

See we have grand suggestions for those we love, huh? hahahaha

Leslie said...

Anita, I can't believe you for-going sleep so you can respond to blog posts! You need your rest! I know NO other blogger that responds to blog posts the way you do. Half the time I miss when people post.. or I feel that I need to choose between visiting others blogs or working on my own. It's lots of work! I work fewer hours than I used to so I should have time to do all this:) but it can be challenging to squeeze everything in each day. At this age (I think we are about the same age) .. I am trying to take care, and be gentler to my body. That's why I started my blog and video series. I want women to be kinder to themselves and have a place to go where they can be themselves and not be judged.

YOU take care of yourself and no need to thank me for this comment!

xxL

Pamela said...

Oh yes, she would have adored you. And she does love you and is smiling her light on you. How lovely she is! I can imagine the stories your dear mother must have told you about her. The song is perfect and an embrace!

Palomasea said...

Oh Anita...this is so beautiful...not only would she have fallen madly in love with you (she loves you deeply even now, I just know it)...she would have been a soul mate...
No wonder you bear such resemblance to exquisite Marie...and her eyes...such gentleness and beauty...
Her artistic gifts and love for theater!
Stunning tribute, dear sister...
Making me weep along with the music! :))) Beautiful...like you.
Tight hugs to you, dear one...
Love you.

Lisa Farmer Designs said...

Wow Anita, the picture right above yours where she is looking up like you are.....the same eyes!!! It is wonderful when you can see yourself in the face of someone else. Was she the creative force that you are?

You sure have proven that beautiful quote to be true! What grandmother wouldn't love to be immortalized in such a loving way by her granddaughter. You did good!!!

My grandmother's name was Marie also and I was almost named Lisa Marie. You made me think of her today!

Blessings, Lisa

Elizabeth@ Pine Cones and Acorns said...

Hello my dear! I have missed coming to visit, as I mentioned I have been a little off this week with all of the things going on with my family.

Thank you for this beautiful post, it reminds me of my fabulous grandmother Sylvia! What a gem. I was so very lucky to know her.

I hope that you have a fabulous week, xoxo Elizabeth

Be safe this weekend.

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Anita!
Oh I am so happy you enjoyed Bebe.. This is the one I sculpted with paperclay! She has always been sculpted in polymer clay.. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your sweet note. I enjoyed it. I knew the music would be your cup of tea..
bisous!
Penny

The enchanted home said...

What a beautiful tribute to your grandmother. For all that love can be, above all else it is irreplaceable. Those we love most are what makes life so grand. Loved this.

Hayu Maselli said...

Hello Anita,

Beautiful and touching post. She was so gorgeous.and She had a beautiful name.
Love for the first sight...oh yes, it 's my case,me and my man;)
so sweet.
wishing you a beautiful week

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Oh my! Would that be funny or what... I wish I could have made her toy wind up..
My birdies have taken flight to my etsy shop.
bisous!
Penny

jerilanders said...

Anita, in answer to your ?? about the music on the videos, it depends. Some of the music I use comes with the movie maker, it is copyright free. But when I use music I have purchased as a download off Amazon, I include the artist's name on the video description and they get free advertising. Amazon automatically will pop up beneath the video directing the viewer to the "purchase site." Sometimes, I just use a cd I own and play the music in the background while making the movie. The song on that Video is called Butterfly Waltz.

pve design said...

I want to know more about Marie. She looks positively dreamy.
pve

Unknown said...

Such a lovely post, I loved seeing Marie. What a wonderful tribute.
Karen

jerilanders said...

Anita, I forgot to tell you that You Tube also has loads of music that you can add to your video after you make it. Everything from celtic, classical, jazz, hundreds of songs!

"Create Beauty" said...

What a treasure you have in these wonderful photos of your grandmother,
who obviously lived a very interesting and magical life!!!

I imagine that you are very much like her.

Truly wonderful!
~ Violet

Privet and Holly said...

Oh my goodness,
I can SEE YOU in
your grandmother,
sweet friend! And
she definitely had
spirit, just like you
do. What a precious
tale of two lovely
women who lived
in different times,
yet are connected
to one another.

And YES, she would
have loved you dearly!!

xo Suzanne

Anne said...

She was so lovely! smolderingly beautiful. Of COURSE she would have loved you on first sight -- who wouldn't!! p.s. thanks for the picture of Sybil.. that was my favorite scene fom DA...! will miss her character...

hi-d said...

This is one of my favorite posts of yours. I adore old photos and the ones you chose make me want to know more about your grandmother. She looks like she could have been famous...so beautiful and your grandfather as quite handsome as well!

Thanks for stopping by. 1st grade will be here before you know it for Mr. M. Time goes sooo fast.

hi-d said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
francis said...

Lieve Anita,
You have done it again ...
Lots of blog-ladies are thinking about their grandmothers .....
My grandmothers were ...in my memory
..... very old ladies .
White hair and curved legs .....
Nowadays grandmothers are still young and dye their hair and have jobs ...
I also have beautiful old pictures of my grandmother
Nowadays the grandmothers are kept in Iphones .
Do you have a sister Anita
If I remember correctly no sisters no brothers .....
Can I addopt you as my sister ?
I just had my darling Eva here during three days .
Her father picked her up at the end of his working day.
My granddaugther is a stewardess and she had to work for FIVE days .
Flying all over europe ....
Sleeping in hotels in
Madrid , Milan , Oslo , London...
Away from her darlings ......
My son is the most wonderful father and when he brings Eva in the morning she smells wonderfull after her bath ... her hair is adorable and dressed like princess ...
Her bag contains everything we could possibly need .....
and I ....just have to enjoy .....
She talks amazingly good for her age ......
I often cannot believe my ears ....
Three days with me and than two days with Vanessa's mother .
I always was a stay-at-home mother so I cannot imagen how it must be to miss such a sweetheart ....
We do have our Iphone and I send pictures and little movies .....
I guess each time has his own specialties .....
I am going to try to send you a little movie by email
My first time making pancakes for Eva and ....look for yourself
Have a wonderful weekend
Big hug

koralee said...

Oh my goodness...what a wonderful post...I was blessed to know one of my grandmothers...she lived next door to me when I was growing up...I spent ooodles of time with her. She is such a part of my life even today!
My Mothers name is Marie..as was my great grandmothers.
Love your post today my friend.
Sorry I have not visited for a while...life has been so busy...but I still think of you each day!
Hope your day goes well...I am off to meet a blogging friend who just moved here from London England...can't wait! xoxo
Hugs and love.

The French Bear said...

Love this post......you always have amazing and thought provoking posts.....makes me wish, want, and dream!!!!
Love your photos and your words, beautiful as always...
I will email you a wish.....
Hugs,
Mags
xxx

Burlap Luxe said...

Such a beautiful post, and a perfect month of February to post it in, love!

Anita I look back at old photos with certain sadness that they are no longer, and what would they think of me now?

Such beauty pours from your heart.

Xox
Doré

DolceDreams said...

Oh how beautiful Anita!!! You, your Grandmother Marie ~ oh my gosh what stunning pictures of a stunning beauty! I love my Grandmother too so much, and look at her old pictures thinking of her life then, and how she must have stirred up the pot!

I hope you are warm and well my friend,
Nathalie

Sylvia said...

Sweet Anita,
this is extremely beautiful, and poignant, and romantic, and ... "The first impression can make such a lasting impression" is the advice my mam gave me long ago ...and I have always believed in it. Your photos and words are brilliant testimony how amazing Marie was ... and there is no doubt in my mind that she would have adored you. You both have such deep eyes and we all know "the beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides"
Love to you, beautiful friend!

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Dearest Anita...thank you so much for your lovely words....this kit felt special to make as I knew it would be going to a very good cause...I just can't imagine how it would be to lose everything...

We are having another hot day here today so I think I will stay indoors....perhaps a big glass of bubbly later on...Cheers to you my Friend...love Dzintra xoxo

Red Rose Alley said...

Anita dear,
I just came by to see Marie once again. She is so very lovely. My husband just called from work and said he is coming home sick with a bad cold. I do hope that I don't get it. I'm probably not doing much this weekend but taking care of him. Have fun for me, would you please? hehe
Love,
~Sheri

Karen Xavier said...

So stunning the images... you all seem to possess some ethereal qualities. You look stunning, it's all in the genes, I see. Loved going through your pictorial story...

renae said...

Oh my Anita! Too bad about the eyelid acne. Sounds like you are ready for mascara again. I had pinkeye last year from the kindergarten kids. I went mascara free for about three weeks ...the darlings. Yes, Do model - your teenyiness if perfect to show off. I'm dying to see your new coat. I did take a break from blogging but we ran around this evening and I got new lipstick and shoes and we went out to eat at Cafe Rio! Do you have Cafe Rio there?

Take care my sweet and see you on Monday and Valentines day is THURSDAY!!!!! WONDERFUL!!!! :D

Kidslife said...

OH my godnees Anita, i LOVE Marie too! Such GORGEOUS pictures - she was adorable. And she reminds me of my own great-grandmother Marie-Loise, who keeps fascinating me and makes me dream of another time .... I'm so sure she would have LOVED YOU my dear one - how could she not? I think you come after her. She would LOVE your paper dresses and shies as well.. Happy weekend, lots of love from me!

millefeuilles said...

Striking! Both in your powerful sentiment and in the visual splendour: just look at those AMAZING clothes! I could gaze at those pictures for every. They remind me so very much of Zola's 'Au Bonheur des dames': have you read it, Anita? Oh, the attention to detail concerning women's attire is fabulous.

Of course your grand-mother would have loved you; how could she not?

I was thinking about you today, Anita, when I came across this French paper artist's blog: http://merveillesenpapier.typepad.fr/merveillesenpapier/ Do you know her?

Fondest wishes to a special lady,

Stephanie

Anne said...

You will look like the symbol of chic Paris in a white shirt and jeans, Anita-- you're gorgeous!

Simplement ... said...

Je voudrais chanter, Marie, pourquoi je t'aime
Pourquoi ton nom si doux fait tressaillir mon cœur
Et pourquoi la pensée de ta grandeur suprême
Ne saurait à mon âme inspirer de frayeur.
Si je te contemplais dans ta sublime gloire
Et surpassant l'éclat de tous les bienheureux
Que je suis ton enfant je ne pourrais le croire
Ô Marie, devant toi, je baisserais les yeux !...

Sainte-Thérèse de l'Enfant-Jésus.

Merci à toi chère Anita qui sait si bien nous conduire sur un chemin de lumière.

Gros bisous
Marie-Ange

Elizabeth Rose Stanton said...

Without a DOUBT, Marie would have loved you! What's not to love?? :)
xo

Ivy and Elephants said...

Sweet Anita,
How could she not. You charm and bewitch us all! As a grandmother, I assure you, you would have been the apple of her eye.
Such an elegant and beautiful lady.
You are so very like her. You are the tribute:)
Hugs,
Patti

renae said...

Hi kind friend, Anita! I love relishing in these old photos, they say so much.

please see email! (hug)

Angela said...

Hi, dear!! Sweet post!!! I love the lord of the ring pictures!!! :)

Have a nice day, Anita!!!

Kisses!

Francine Gardner said...

Your words deeply touched me. My grandmother Marcelle was truly my first sight as I was born in her bed, and refused to leave it until I was seven, to my parent's dismay.I was by her bed for her last breath at 103.

Mr Paul said...

How wonderful to have a beautiful set of photographs Anita. Your grandmother looks so very elegant and graceful. A quality which obviously runs in the family. Heres to a wonderful week. Paul

Denise said...

So sweet and tender.You found the perfect song.It's your song now.No wonder your so beautiful,your Grammie looks so much like you.

Angele Style said...

OOOHHH, the song is so precious....just like your grandmother and her meaning in your life. My grandmother was very special to me as well.....and you do look so very much like her.

koralee said...

Happy MONDAY and it is one happy one over here...today in BC it has been declared family day! So no school for me or work for hubby! Loving this extra time on a Monday Morning.
Hope your week is filled with love and hearts...seeing it is the week of LOVE. You sound like you will have a busy week...same with me...lots on my calendar but it's all good..except for a dentist appointment {thank goodness it is not on Valentines day...how dreadful that would be to have to go visit the dentist that day!}
Happy MOnday...thinking of you.

renae said...

Do I have a pair of cowgirl boots? Do I have a pair of cowgirl boots? Anita! My green ones? Remember?

Don't tell me you have forgotten my green cowgirl boots. hahahahaha, I had to give you a bad time. hahahaha. Oh yes I do think I will still wear these boots well into warm days of spring to summer? Aren't THEY so cool?

You are such a breath of fresh air, my Anita. You keep me smiling that's for dang sure!!!♥

Fete et Fleur said...

Anita, she would have adored you. She certainly was lovely just like you! I would love to see photos of your studio redo.

Hugs!
Nancy

Ivy Clad said...

Oh Anita! There you go again-- my eyes are damp. How beautiful.. the photos, the words, the sentiment in this post are so touching. Your photos are lovely. What a beautiful family. And YOU, in '78, are adorable!

I hope you and Ruben have a wonderful Valentine's Day!

xo,
Keri

francis said...

My beloved SISTER ...
In dutch I would call you ZUSJE !
Just visiting to let you know I was here and thinking of you .
HOPE YOUR WEEK WILL BE A HAPPY WEEK

Elizabeth Johnson said...

I love this. It brings to mind many memories and touches my heart.
My how you look like your grandmother. You are both beauties.
Did you get my email yesterday? My email is having problems and I need to speak with techy people. Let me know if I need to resend. : )
~Elizabeth

Unknown said...

awe LOVE this!

Anonymous said...

Anita, your blog is probably the only one, or among the very few, that I never mind visiting the same post over and over again. This is so beautiful. I love the third picture from the top--the gorgeous color of that dress--and I had not noticed it's from Downton Abbey, which I have NOT watched a single episode of. I hear it's a good series.
Thank you for stopping by, love.
Have a beautiful day.
Hugs

Martina said...

Anita!!! It snowed and you work in the garden? ARe you making a snow-woman? WIth tiara and icy white dress? That would be FUN! Here, the snow melted and i see first buds, but it is still very cold. Thanks for coming to the ponpom-post!

renae said...

Thank you sweet Anita! Yes, cowgirl boots are all the rage these days. I got mine two years ago. I have worn them year round. In Utah when we have our state holiday, which is based on the pioneers, I like to wear my boots on that day in the MIDDLE of the summer. hahahaha.

Be sure and see my Valentines day post. I'm excited about it. Have a tremendous day staying warm and eating hot soup! hahahaha.

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Hello beautiful Anita!!!!!
Wishing you a wonderful week!!!!
I have been sick with the flu since Sunday- ugh!!!!
Trying to get lots of rest. My husband had the flu last week; it's been going around.
Do you have any Valentines Day plans?
Hope you had a awesome day!!!!
Hugs,
Shannon

Anonymous said...

Beautiful. The answer is simply YES. She would have adored you at first sight. I believe she looks down on you and loves you from above, Anita. xo

Nella Miller said...

Dear Anita, how could she not adore YOU! She is hauntingly beautiful....you have inherited her gorgeous eyes.....what a beautiful post....I wish I had known my grandmothers as well...N.xoxo

Elizabeth Johnson said...

New email sent. Let me know if it fails to arrive.
~Elizabeth

Anonymous said...

Anita, She would have loved you even before she saw your face. And you, my dear, surely have been blessed with that soulfulness so apparent in her photos!

M.A. the 2nd ~ Frances Russell said...

Dear Anita .... what a beautiful tribute to your gorgeous grandma. I absolutely love all the old photos. They are so whimsical. I hope you are having a good week!
best wishes always
Frances

Aldy said...

Gorgeous pictures of your grandmother and such BEAUTIFUL tribute too. I think she would have loved you very (very) much!!!! Wishing you a happy week full of love and inspiration! Thank you for sharing your treasured memories, my sweet friend.

BIG Abrazos <3

Fashion-isha said...

Wow! Amazing. I love this so much. It really touched my soul.
xo
Sharon

Vintage Home said...

Happy Valentines Day!

koralee said...

HAPPY HEARTS DAY MY FRIEND...I am celebrating our friendship today! Happy school day to you...we shall be celebrating..must go find something red or pink to wear today! It will be a love filled day. xoxoxo

renae said...

ANITA!!! HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY. Go get that salmon dress! Do!

Thank you for all your fun comments and your dedication to being an awesome reader at my little silly posts. [couldn't get my debit card out fast enough] It was so true. After the work day and I was home, I decided to try on the dress. I was amazed it FIT!!! hahahahaha.

Thank you for your time and efforts in all the enthusiasm you bring to me each day. Yay!!!

Sabi Sunshine said...

Unbelievable beautiful post :) Wish you a very Happy Valentine day!

Red Rose Alley said...

Anita,
Remember the cold that my husband got this weekend? Well, he passed it on to me, and I think it is the worse flu virus I've had in a long time. It is the fourth day, and I feel a bit better, but still sick as a dog. I didn't want this day of Valentine's to pass without sending you love. Happy Valentine's Day, precious friend of mine.
~Sheri

A Magical Whimsy said...

Hello dearest Anita~
Your grandmother was beautiful! All of those elegant photos of her...oh yes! I am sure of it that she would have adored you on the spot! My mother told me I was so much like my dad's mother. And that was before I was grown up and was able to get to know her too. We both loved the color blue, we both loved peacocks, and adored cats, and she was the one who taught me how to crochet at age 13...many wonderful memories to cherish. But it was my mother's mother, my other grandmother who was the quiet, funny one, whom I would go on the Cherry Street bus with in 1970 to downtown Long Beach, Ca. and we would have a ball eating at Woolworth's for lunch, nothing fancy, and then we would go oggle the vintage depression glass that Good Will which had put enormous prices on! And we would then go to Bullocks to buy fabric for me to sew my dresses (as that is all we wore back then,even to school!), and at Buffums, I had a chignon made to match my hair as that was the rage at the time, and at Learner's I would buy my high school clothes. There is something so rich and rare about grandmothers. It is so very special for you have these lovely heart warming photos of your grandmother as her heart definitely speaks out volumes of love from the photos.
Sigh...I wish you could have known her too.
lots of hugs and love
Teresa

Suz said...

I missed this beautiful post about your grandmother till today.

PamLuvsPink said...

Hi!!!!

I'm sorry that I'm just now finding about your blog and you're taking a much needed break. I hope all is well and we shall see you the near future!!

The pictures to you grandmother is so endearing. I love her pictures. Maybe when you come back, I can then ask for you permission to have one of her in my Bay window show room. It's not a store or business whatsoever. It's just one of four Bay windows in my house that I have set up as my office/show room, so, that my friends can see what I do for a hobby.

I collect vintage hats, purses, gloves and anything else that a woman in that time frame would use to adorn herself with.

take care!!!

Pam