Sometimes, without warning, life takes on that crazy whirlwind effect, doesn't it? I do understand, for some of you, life is a constant whirlwind, not just for several days or a few weeks. I remember balancing forty hour work weeks and family, a wonderful family mind you, but a house with four kids and five pets IS a whirlwind. Thank goodness for my incredible husband--we made a good team. Still do, but things have slowed down some with just the two of us in the house.
So, the whirlwind...that's my dad, literally, for as long as I can remember and he hasn't stopped yet. A widower for five years, he went to his 60th high school class reunion in June where he met up with a woman, a former classmate, also widowed, for 11 years. In spite of her living 900 miles away, they were immediately inseparable and married on September 4th. My growing-up-house went on the market, sold in a week and they're packing up to move to Corpus Christi, TX. Whew!
After my mom died, my sister and I, over time, helped my dad look through some of her personal items. We kept special pieces and packed up the rest to move along. Because of Dad's big move, the past two or three days have been a re-living of that process. He isn't interested in taking a whole lot with him and I understand that, and my two brothers aren't interested in much either. So in we went again, my sister and I, with an eye out for the special things...photographs, books, dishes, knick-knacks, sewing supplies and some pretty linens made by who knows who. My mother did not crochet or embroider, but my grandmother did so perhaps they're her handiwork.
Mom did love dolls, though, and we knew we would find some of her old favorites in a cedar chest in the basement. I just love these three and chose them to bring home with me. They need a little TLC but I enjoy doing that. And take a look at that great old doll quilt!
We also found a box of doll clothes and accessories. So adorable! Do you see the "Monday" undies, on the right hand side underneath the "Dolsox"? Heehee, kinda makes you wonder what happened to Tuesday through Sunday.
Do any of you know anything about the doll on the right? I never saw this particular one prior to Monday and haven't taken the time yet to do any research. It's very unusual--the arms and legs seem to be a bendable metal coil and her hands and feet remind me of Mickey Mouse's. I'm quickly becoming attached and would love to know something about her:) (Thurs., Sept. 18 - UPDATE - Last night, I was able to find this information online: "1938 Fanny Brice as Baby Snooks, 12" tall, flexy doll with wire mesh torso and a metal cable thru arms & legs. IDEAL DOLL." Interesting.)
As I go along, I'll try to share some more of my fun finds with you. Thanks for coming along with me on my little trip down memory lane.
Marilyn
6 comments:
Wow- congratulations to your Dad and his new wife!
Love the quilt and those dolls! Especially the one in the middle with the darling headress.
The doll on the right is a little scary looking- does she have a mark on her upper back or the back of her neck?
I really do love some good show-and-tell ... thanks for sharing. You found some serious treasures. :)
Here's wishing your dad and his new wife many years of excellent health and great happiness. :)
Lucky you to have such treasures.
hi marilyn, i'm sorry about the loss of your mother. i know what my mom has been through. i'm glad you have some of her treasures to enjoy. i hope all goes well for your dad. thanks for visiting :)hugs, susan
What fantastic heirloom Marilyn . The dolls are gorgeous and that Fannie Brice doll is so unique. I have never seen one like it. The hands are huge. I had no ide they made bendable dolls in that era. Im sure youre mom is smiling constantly knowing that her "little girls" have some wonderful new toys. A timeless gift courtesy of Mom.
smiles
Darly*~
i love your mothers dolls. enjoy them. my mother gave me her dolls, she had like the one on the right. I'm not sure what she is, but i'm glad i have them. Great clothes too. Lucky girl.
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