Elsie

My maternal Nana, Elsie was larger than life.  A sparkle in her eye, vibrant, strong, charismatic.

I was a pretty shy kid, so growing up I loved her and was intimidated by her in equal measure.  She would tell it like it is, she was opinionated and sometimes I'd come away feeling slightly bruised and confused. Her honesty and aplomb are things I love most about her now, but didn't understand as a kid.  She was very loving, kind and generous.  She really did live to give.

She was a very social person, her dancing at weddings, fundraisers, parties (even into her 90's) are the stuff of legend.  She was a loyal friend and fierce defender of her family.  She had two deaf children, one of them being my mother and was forever selling raffle tickets, raising money, driving awareness & providing support to the community.

Don't you love those brilliant hats she and her friends wore!  My mum has kept many of her hats, they're amazing! We don't need much encouraging to pull them out ;-)

I'm sure Nana influenced my love of accessories.  I would sit at her dresser trying on all of her rings, brooches, necklaces, clip-on earings etc, admiring my blinged up self in the mirror.  Her style had flair, a sense of occasion, a mix of classic and costume pieces, always bold and colourful.

This gorgeous lady lived life to the fullest and I feel very blessed to have been able to share so much of my life with her.  

It makes me smile to think of her, I miss her a lot.

Belinda x