Memories

I found myself at that difficult time of life when I was presented with the harrowing task of sorting and packing my Mother's lifetime of personal belongings.  Sadly, she was about to be admitted to a Nursing Home.  Day to day living had become such a struggle, owing to the fact that she was stricken with Alzheimer's Disease, which was wrecking havoc with her mind.

Opening her dresser drawer, I lovingly packed each item carefully knowing full well that these were her most precious items.  Reaching deep into the drawer, much to my delight, I came upon a treasure so dear to my heart, it brought tears to my eyes.  I asked myself  " how on earth could I have forgotten about such a treasure" when time and time again, throughout my childhood, it brought me so much pleasure.  The Button Box with all of it's glory lay before me waiting to unleash the exquisite array of colors, shapes, and textures.

I have such wonderful memories of this rather shabby but undeniably elegant tin box.  This was particularly so, when I was home from school with the sniffles, as my Mother would offer this special box, as a way to keep me occupied while I was recuperating.  Slowly lifting the lid, my little fingers would gather the contents, and if by magic, I would imagine they were sparkling jewels.  Of course, one always had the option of sorting the buttons into categories or simply "swishing" them about creating the most wonderful sound.  From shiny to fabric covered,  from smooth to rough textured, with a bevy of colors galore.  The beauty of each button was a treasure to behold, but more importantly, the simplicity  of the task , filled a little girl's heart with joy.

***  To my Mother for teaching about the simple pleasures in life.