My Mammaw on the other hand has always had a china cabinet that she used dishes out of regularly. When we were little and would stay with her, she would take us to have break with Pawpaw at the grocery store. We never ever got to finish our candy or soda while at the store. But, when we got home she would take out these fancy little glasses that were in her china cabinet and we got to finish our soda and candy in style! Mammaw always said, "Don't save it for a special occasion. use it. Being with your family is special."
My Mammaw and Pawpaw have moved in with m parents recently and they are distributing some of the things they want their loved ones to have. I was there last week and Mammaw offered me her new china hutch. I was so excited. I have had her very first hutch for the last 10 years and while I love it, a bigger one was such a nice offer. Then a few days later I was at Mom's and there were boxes waiting for me that said "Denisa China" & "Denisa Glass China". I had Daddy load them into my trunk and I left them there for a few days.
I had been really sick this week so I hadn't been able to get the boxes out and see what all was in them until tonight. I finally felt like I had enough energy to get the boxes out and go through them. I opened up the box marked "glass" and found some of my Mammaw's delicate glassware that was engraved with floral designs. Some of it I remember from when I was little. Then I opened the bigger box. The one my heart was truly dying to see what was inside. It was filled with her 8 piece serving set of white china with gold edges. I took out each piece carefully and examined it, knowing that my Mammaw had packed it away doing the exact thing I was doing now. The tears were burning my eyes. I had this beautiful china that I had grown up with in my world. Something I had always wanted and always loved. Something that means more to me than anyone else could ever understand. After I got it all unpacked and put away, I FaceTimed my Mammaw and showed her that I had it all out away and told her thank you. I know most people don't understand or appreciate the bond I have with my Red, but, this china was Christmas for me. For the rest of my life. It means more to me than anything else I could ever ask for.
So, I'm going to plan a meal soon and use my beautiful new dishes. Because around here, we don't save things for a special occasion. Being with the ones you love is special. Every single day is a gift and I've learned that from one of the greatest blessings God ever gave me. My Mammaw is one of my best gifts and I am so thankful.
