Heirloom tear drops

Growing up, I always loved to borrow my Mum’s clothing and accessories – the old stuff. I loved her funky dresses and jewellery from the 1960s and 70s and often dreamed of one day owning it all.

I was elated when, as a teenager, she finally gave me an old handbag of hers from when she was in high school. It was the first bag in my vintage collection and remains a favourite to this day. I wore her flowing gowns (more often than she may know!) and flashed my bedazzled fingers that were loaded with funky rings. And the bracelets and necklaces – oh my! I even wore her wedding dress when I got married!

Slowly but surely, I’ve become the owner of some of these bits and bobs. So today I thought I’d share one of my favourites with you! And it goes beyond Mum, too, which is cool.

So, here’s the story as told in the letter that I got when I received this amazing set:

Frances,

‘Tis the year for re-gifting! Actually, this is a piece of history. Your grandmother had this necklace and earring set in high school. She wore it several times as I was growing up. In 1970, I had a new lace outfit for the Marine Corps Ball and needed a blue necklace to compliment it. I requested to borrow this set and Mom sent it to me. She told me I could keep it because she didn’t use it anymore. I have now chosen to give it to you. I know you’ll use and cherish this set.

Enjoy!

Love,
Mom

I have worn the set on several occasions over the past few years. The last time I wore it was for the last professional portraits Paul and I had taken together. I love them so much and hope that I’m able to find an occasion to wear them again. (Anyone want to take me out for a nice dinner?)

Oh, and Mum, I can still fit into that lace outfit you wore in 1970. You and I both know that I will give it a good and loving home. You know my address when you’re ready to pass it along …

4 Replies to “Heirloom tear drops”

  1. I loved the set (necklace & earrings)!!!! They are in my favorite color: blue !!! I hope you may find a nice Spring occasion to wear them !!!

    1. I think I’ll have to invent an occasion. Maybe a nice dinner out when the semester is finished next month? I’m sure I can find someone to dine with me!

  2. I’m so happy to see the necklace and earrings in the “news” today. And, I’m glad to know you love them. As for the dress, I’ll keep it under advisement. And, now for a correction…the purse you mentioned isn’t from high school. I got that while I was stationed down at MCRD San Diego. That certainly was a fun little purse!

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