24 August 2011

On Kindess, Kitchen Tables & Goodbyes


On the cape last weekend, my 83-year-old grandmother made the following proclamation at Sunday brunch: "For a long time, I believed intelligence was the most important thing. Now, I know it's kindness."

I wonder what I'll believe 60 years from now. I already agree with her on that one.

The photos are recent iPhone snaps of my kitchen table. Always a peaceful place for me, especially lately.

We put my mom on a plane to China last night. I'm thrilled for her and her upcoming year of adventure but can't suppress a twinge of anxiety: a year feels like a long time and I will miss her.
Posted by at 8:00 AM
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10 comments:

  1. alli/hoorayAugust 24, 2011 at 8:38 AM

    Wishing safe travels for your mom and some peace of mind for you!

    I love that quote from your grandma - I feel like that is something my dad has taught me over the years, without ever putting into words.

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  2. rachelAugust 24, 2011 at 11:06 AM

    I agree with your grandma, too. Kindness goes a long way...

    Hope your mom has a wonderful & safe trip!

    Happy Wednesday :)

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  3. SusanAugust 24, 2011 at 12:46 PM

    Oh wow..such an adventure for your Mom! Might you be able to visit her at some point? I agree with your grandmother-kindness is so important in this world.

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  4. A Crimson KissAugust 24, 2011 at 3:59 PM

    Darling, your grandmother is a wise woman who has clearly rubbed off on you. And your little kitchen table looks like a slice of heaven I can't wait to visit.

    xox, Lena

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  5. M.M.E.August 24, 2011 at 4:12 PM

    Your grandmother is one smart cookie. :) I wish your mother the best of luck and safe travels!

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  6. carolineAugust 24, 2011 at 10:43 PM

    absolutely agree with your grandmother!

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  7. Kimia KlineAugust 25, 2011 at 3:55 AM

    ahh so excited for your mom and all the amazing adventures in store for her. (and for you! vicarious living anyone?) also agree with lena 100%. your grams has clearly rubbed off on you. best lesson ever.

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  8. kimbirdyAugust 25, 2011 at 3:08 PM

    wow, the women in your life sound amazing. such great wisdom from your grandma, and what an exciting thing for your mom to head off to china for a year! i find them both to be incredibly inspiring just from these snippets of information.

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  9. BrandiAugust 25, 2011 at 8:58 PM

    Safe travels wishes to your mom!

    And can I borrow your grandmother some time? She sounds like she'd be a fascinating lady to talk to. I think my grandmother knew things like that but never said them. I wish I could ask her.

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  10. Patio FurnitureAugust 30, 2011 at 6:25 AM

    great wisdom from your grandma, safe travel tp your mom.... nice Kitchen Tables

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Your thoughts always bring a smile to my face. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave them.

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