One of my greatest possessions is my maternal grandfather’s collection of Big Band music.
Granddad had two listening areas: a desk in the living room and a small table at the upstairs landing.
Each had a set of drawers filled with tapes.
Whenever I would visit, he and I would often sit together and just listen. I think Granddad looked forward to having me come over because that meant he had someone else who really appreciated the music like he did.
I remember one particular visit I wasn’t going to have time to sit down and listen to any music. We were both so disappointed but I made it up to him during my next visit.
Granddad died shortly before 9/11. I asked my grandmother if I could have the tape collection. She said yes.
They are now in a couple of boxes and don’t really get played much.
Every once in a while I will play one but I have them for the memories.
Of sitting in the living room couch across from Granddad’s desk.
Of sitting on the upstairs landing with him just listening.
My father asked me if I would give them away to charity…
NOT A CHANCE!
Where ever I move to, they are coming with me!
The only way I am getting rid of them is if they get stolen, lost in a fire or I die!
They are part of Granddad.
They are a part of me.
See The Good would like to thank Amy for her guest post. Amy is a Florida resident and has been self-employed in the dog care field since 2006. She self-published a memoir titled “I Am Not Stupid” which is available through Amazon.com/I Am Not Stupid.
She can be contacted at artemple95@gmail.com or through her LinkedIn profile page: linkedin.com/in/amy-temple-34254a167.
Triple beautiful. Sometimes, the memories we treasure is enough to pull the good out of us, even if we don’t think so.
A beautiful story, Amy. I have a copy of Pilgrim’s Progress published in 1884 which was my grandfather’s 14th birthday gift. I have read that book so many times I have long ago lost count. I didn’t know my grandfather very well. He died when I was 16, and all my life he was stone deaf, so we could never have a conversation. But I am happy to have that book.