When I was young, it was kind of a joke to ask one of us kids to "get grandma's purse". We wouldn't mind because there was usually some kind of "surprise" for us in there. I can remember pencils with my name printed on them, gum, candy, etc. The funny part was watching one of us try to drag, push, and pull the very, very heavy bag to Grandma. As kids, we never thought about what else was in there, but it was EXTREMELY heavy.
When I was out on my own, as an adult, Grandma would come to stay with me and not only bring her purse, but usually an extra bag with her needlework. Her purse was still packed heavy with all sorts of things that usually aren't found in a purse.
You see, one of those times, my apartment had a lot of minor things that were going wrong or falling apart. I didn't have any tools. My front doorknob was loose, the patio door wouldn't close properly, the cabinets were crooked, etc. I told her I was waiting for the landlord. She got her purse and got out a huge SCREWDRIVER! Then gave me a talking to about how I should not wait for a man, or a landlord to fix these repairs. I was strong, I was capable, I was smart enough to do it on my own. We spent the weekend "fixing" up the apartment.. but not like you would think with a grandma. No frilly pillows, curtains, or baking. We fixed all the repairs and I got a toolbox (small enough to fit in a purse but big enough to take care of things! ha! ha!) It was amazing what she had in that purse.
I thought about GG's purse a couple of weeks ago when I unclogged a drain in my bathroom. Yep, all by myself. I first thought I should call the landlord, or maintenance, or the neighbor. Then I had a GG moment and thought I should at least try myself. I did it, and out loud made sure GG knew it.
Her extra needlework bag was the same. If you were knitting and suddenly realized you needed a stitch holder, or a marker, or a tapestry needle, or...just about anything, she wouldn't even say a word and whip it out. She wanted to be sure you could work on your project and had the right tools.
I now have 2 clear pencil bags full of notions so I can do the same. I want GG's love of needlework to continue. I want everyone to feel empowered.
I don't carry a screwdriver in my purse, but I know GG is proud of me...I unclogged my drain AND gave someone a stitch marker all in the last 2 weeks.
