My Grandfather and I

If you knew my grandfather, then you know he was very passionate about his canning jar collection. He had many things that he partook in collecting, but nothing as avidly as his jars. Growing up I vividly remember the narrow corridor of the garage that housed his extensive collection and how it always felt like a forbidden treasure room. It was rare to be aloud admittance as a kid, but when you were, it truly was a special day. You’d walk in to see jars of all different colors and sizes lining the walls. They were even stacked on the floor in boxes and overflowing from cabinets. As a kid, or adult you would have to move cautiously, and you didn’t dare touch anything out of fear of something breaking.

There was something that drew me to appreciate this hobby of his. Though I’m not sure what it was in particular. It could’ve been the history behind these items; it could’ve been their visual appeal; the chance to stumble across something of value; or maybe it was an opportunity to connect. Either way, his interest eventually became mine as well. It was one of our greatest things in common that we bonded over each time I visited. For years we would drive to antique shops, flea markets and yard sales scouring for any good finds. Even if we came back empty handed it was always a great time. The search and anticipation for treasure is always the most exciting part anyway.

We kept up our tradition for many years. Even when he began to struggle with his health, he still made the effort to accompany me to the shops. Although we may not have been searching for “gold” anymore we still were able to share the gift of gab. Our conversations on these car rides taught me more about my family and the area that they, and many ancestors before them, grew up in.

Even though he is gone, and I miss him greatly, his memory and spirit prevail in the actions he performed throughout his life and the unforgettable impressions he left on the people around him…and of course…his canning jar collection! 🙂 I feel very fortunate to have had the relationship that I did with my grandfather, and I thank God for the amazing family I’ve been blessed with.

-Justin