SOL: Stanzas of Life

This will serve as the second post in a series of letters to my loved ones.

To my grandmothers: Joyce, Phyllis, and Veronica,

Thank you. I find comfort when I’m around you. Our moments together are often filled with laughter. From baking to painting together, my culinary and artistic palette have broadened. You have challenged my outlook, shared stories of my childhood, and have spent quality time with me over the last 21 years. Joyce, you’re a card and board game enthusiast, from “Mexican Train” to “Skip-Bo”. You are often reserved and soft-spoken, yet I can relate to your inward personality. I’m also an internal thinker, pondering over what to say or do next. Tanning beds, warm weather, and visiting your grandkids are things that bring you joy. We both share a love for traveling. Though you are quiet, I’m grateful for the moments we have shared together in Michigan and Florida. Thank you for your continued support and love.

Phyllis, you’re my butterfly grandma. You told me that the butterfly reference came from your mother who adored butterflies for their beauty and elegance. In your mother’s obituary, it said that “she was so precious and we morn that she was gone, but like a butterfly, she was with us for a short time.” Each time I see a butterfly, I am reminded of your presence and love. Your many gifts include cooking (chocolate pie, homemade applesauce, and mac-n-cheese, etc.), pickleball, and fast bingo. Your love for murder mystery novels and peanut M&Ms brings me joy. Your only shortfall is technology. It is fitting that your nickname and email are “horse-and-buggy”. From blue bonfires to drive-in movies in the burgundy Chrysler 300, we have shared many special moments. I love your frugal personality and cost-efficient mindset. You have a gentle heart and warm spirit just like a delicate Monarch butterfly.

Veronica, or Grammie, you’re a talented artist and matriarch. Symbolized as the African Elephant of the family, you’re a leader and compassionate mother. From Africa to Asia, and even Antartica, you’re a world traveler who has seen roughly every crevice of our beautiful planet. Travel has been a means to connect with distant people, observing the natural world and capturing its beauty in your artwork. Your art is abstract and depicts the motion of nature through moving landscapes. Grammie, you have a kind soul and charismatic presence. You love others by giving gifts. The best gift you have given me is your time. Time is one thing that no one can buy.

Joyce, Phyllis, and Veronica, if there was one lesson that you have instilled in me it would be to enjoy life, be happy, and do something you love. Thank you again for being role models, mentors, and mothers who have taught not only me but many others. You continue to impact the lives around you and your community in ways that you may never fully realize. Your kindness, generous support, and unwavering love is all that our world needs right now.

With love,

Dawson – “Stanzas of Life” creator