Sentimental

My Grandma Irene purchased her Singer sewing machine brand new for $453.63 in 1959*. Like many women of that era, her sewing machine was a work horse. She used it to clothe her family, decorate her home, and handcraft gifts for her loved ones. As a child, I remember playing at her feet to the hum of that machine. She made trunks full of doll clothes and accessories to outfit my Barbies in the latest fashions. She helped transform my first “big girl” room into a pink paradise by sewing curtains and pillows to match my bedding.

Several years ago, as we cleaned out her belongings in preparation to sell her house, I nabbed her sewing machine. I found numerous patterns and other treasures within the sewing cabinet. She had even kept her original payment book!

Fifty-three years later, it still sews beautifully. I’m happy to say I’ve made several quilts for my children and numerous other craft projects as well as patched clothes for my family. Every time I sit down to sew, I can’t help to think of how many times grandma’s hands labored in the same way. I miss that she is not here to watch her great-grandchildren grow but I’m sure she is smiling down from heaven at her machine still providing for her family.