~Memories~

{traditional Bohemian pottery}

As I reflect this week on my grandmother's passing I came to the realization that she has been an influence of my love of home design and decor. Despite being born during World War I, living through the Great Depression, World War II, a communist takeover of her beloved Czechoslovakia, having both her children leave and emigrate to Canada, the death of my grandfather 24 years ago and her immigrating to Canada in her late 70's, she always surrounded herself with pretty things. I remember when she visited Canada while I was growing up, she was a force to be reckoned with but despite her tough demeanor she was a gentle and giving soul. I looked forward to her bringing a pretty dish, candy or jewelry from the Czech Republic. On our birthdays we would get a beautiful box of the most ornately wrapped chocolates. She also NEVER threw anything out and collected so many things from airplane straws to traditional Czech corn husk dolls. 

{Czech Easter eggs in a Bohemian crystal trifle bowl and my china}

Over the years I have been given many of her things from jewelry, crystal and pottery to antique lace that her aunt had made. Between her and my other grandma they scraped together what they had in order to slowly create a collection of beautiful blue and white china, not only for me but for my sister and cousin as well. You can read about my china here.

{my blue and white blue onion china}

As I look around my house I realize how that small, demure woman has influenced the way I like to surround myself with pretty things. It is my tie to my heritage and to the wonderful grandmas that I so dearly loved and admired.

{my garnet jewelry}

{more Bohemian crystal and a traditional Czech corn husk doll}

When you look around your house and think about how you love to decorate your home, who do you think has influenced you?