Vintage Delights

perfume bottle and ring

Christmas Family Tree

bird with unknown ancestor

In 2003, with the help of an upside down tomato cage, faux greenery and a few favourite ornaments, I created a family Christmas tree on which I displayed pictures of ancestors - some known, some not.

I've always felt a strong connection to my roots and I enjoyed honouring them that year by giving them a prominent place in my home. I'd like to honour them again this year but I haven't decided how yet. Maybe I'll embed those same pictures into my Christmas tree or maybe I'll weave them amongst the branches of another faux garland.

Either way, I like the idea of having them be a part of my celebration.

First Aid Instructions - Year 1925

From the 1925 Dominion Pocket Diary, Instructions for First Aid Treatment:

BITES FROM ANIMALS - Apply ligature between wound and heart immediately. Encourage bleeding. Wash wound well with clean water. If wound is on face or chest where no ligature can be applied, the wound may be safely sucked if person doing so has no fresh cracks on his lips or tongue. Wash mouth with spirits afterwards.

I never get tired of reading these. I just loved the use of the word "spirits" in this one. PREPARING FOR DOCTOR is pretty good too - but I'll keep that one for another day.

Finding My Stability Zones

A few months ago, I stumbled upon a passage in a book that described stability zones: parts of our life that give us calm, comfort and peace when everything around us seems stressful and chaotic. Examples include taking the dog for a walk, cleaning the kitchen cupboards, being with friends and looking through old photographs.

I need to rediscover my stability zones.

Sifting through old family photographs and letters grounds me. This morning I pulled my great-grandfather's wooden Colman's Mustard box full of family goodies from under the couch and spent time gingerly unfolding and reading handwritten letters, business receipts and deeds going as far back as 1894. Each time I do this is a different experience. I discover a new name, date or note, make a new connection between ancestors - or between ancestors and myself as I recognize a new quirk or trait I share with them.

Doing this soothes me. I feel a deep, tangible connection to my roots.

Reconnecting with my family history is one of my stability zones. What's one of yours?