Heirloom Party: Treasures from Grandma

This Heirloom Party is dedicated to my grandmother, who was such an inspiration to me growing up. Grandma could do anything. She was a fabulous cook and an immaculate housekeeper. I remember she even used to iron my grandfather's pajamas!

Holidays at my grandparents' house were really special because of all the hard work Grandma put into them. She'd always make Portuguese sweet bread at Easter, a tradition which I continue to follow. Her Christmas dinners were amazing!

When I was in 5th grade, my mother started working full-time. The elementary school I attended allowed students to go home for lunch. Since Mom was at work, and Grandma lived within walking distance to school, I used to walk to her house for lunch. Grandma really knew how to make a terrific lunch! She never just set out a sandwich for me. She'd always make a full meal. She made the most fabulous Portuguese dishes. One of my favorite's was Grandma's Caldierada, or fish hot pot. I have the recipe, and I make for my family. It's one of my husband's favorites.

My grandmother passed away 25 years ago. My mother was cleaning out her basement a few years ago and came across some items that belonged to my grandmother. She thought I might enjoy having them. She was right!

The first was this ornate cookie jar, which doesn't look much like a cookie jar at all. I remember when I was young, I would visit my grandparents. After giving me a big hug and kiss, my grandmother would always say "Janie, would you like a cookie?" With her Portuguese accent, her pronunciation of cookie sounded more like "kooky". She always kept the cookie jar in the same spot on the kitchen counter, and I would eagerly await the opening of that jar. When my mother gave it to me, the cover was broken, so now I keep it on my night table in our bedroom to hold nutritional supplements and medication. It makes me smile when I look at it and think of Grandma asking me if I wanted a "kooky".
The second item I cherish that belonged to my grandmother is her set of silverware. I love the pattern. Every time I use it, it reminds me of all the wonderful holiday meals she prepared for us.
She also used to serve Thanksgiving dinner on these turkey plates. I love the colors in them, as well as the pretty scalloped edge. There is also a matching platter. They are made by Atlas China Company.
I also have an apron that was Grandma's. She always wore aprons at home, and this was one of her favorites. I like to wear it on holidays while preparing dinner, in honor of Grandma's hard work and dedication to our family when I was growing up.


These are my heirloom treasures from my grandmother. They are really more sentimental treasures.

Thanks to Marie of Emma Calls Me Mama for hosting today's Heirloom Party. Mosey on over to Marie's blog and join the fun!

Thanks for stopping by!