My grandmothers are both with the Lord. One passed away when I was four; the other, when I was twenty-six. I am grateful for these two women and the ways in which they taught my parents to be the people that they are today.

In my home are various items that I received from both of my grandmas—from heavy furniture to decorative plates and from miniature glass pitchers to large handmade quilts. I treasure each of these items, and while I recognize that it’s just “stuff,” I treat it with respect and honor because of its origins.

One Christmas many years ago now, one of my grandmothers gave each of us four grandchildren—we were all adults by then—some of the treasured and storied items from her cupboards and linen closet. These were items that she no longer used and was ready to pass along—while she was still living—so that we could enjoy them and could learn of their place within our heritage while she was still here to tell us. Included with each item was a little handwritten note giving the story of that item. One year she gave me a beautiful cuff-style bracelet with a note stating that she had received this piece of jewelry from her great grandmother for her Confirmation in the Lutheran Church, and I think of its significance each time I wear it for a special occasion.

In an attempt to keep this brief, let me just finish by saying that this is today’s gift idea. Grandmas, choose one special item each Christmas for your hard-to-know-what-to-buy-for older grandchildren, and share the story while you are here to do it in person! It’s not “used,” or “this ol’ stuff,” but it’s an heirloom with your history and your story—packaged with love.

“Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” (Psalm 71:18, NIV)

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Thanks for taking time to read “From My Cupboard to Yours.” Feel free to leave a comment about your favorite gifts from “Grandma.”