I know… the pure joy on my children’s faces as they ran outside in a rainstorm returning covered in mud. I know…the spontaneous leap of faith that took me across the country to live independently was the best decision I ever made. I know…the reckless abandon that would find me with muddy toes in the morning, while a tad embarrassing, is a memory I treasure. I know…that I was lucky enough to grow up a “free range” kid exploring the world on my blue Schwinn bike. And, I know…you can’t teach that kind of freedom.
Don’t get me wrong, I had structure…I went to school. I did my homework. I had chores. I was a participating member of my family of six. In fact, one of my first chores was ironing my Dad’s handkerchiefs and pillowcases and, in the summer, I would spend time with my Aunt who lived in the mountains where we washed our clothes in one of those refrigerator-sized machines with the really cool rollers that would squeeze your clothes dry.
Who knew that my on-the-job training would eventually lead to my current passion…rescuing and recycling vintage linens. My passion conjures up those childhood memories… of freedom…of adventure… of muddy toes.
And, I know…the look of joy…of peace…on the faces of those who remember too.
“Remember the feeling as a child When you woke up and morning smiled Its time its time its time you felt like that again” (Taj Mahal, Giant Step)
