Thursday, August 28, 2008

Good bye to my Oma

I haven't been on my blog the last few days as my grandmother (Oma in Dutch) passed away. She was an amazing 98 and lived through two world wars, migrated to Africa and then Australia but her heart was always in Holland. My Grandfather (Opa) was a fashion designer for mens clothing in Holland and when he migrated to Australia he worked for Trent Nathan an Australian fashion icon as a leading fashion designer and cutter, my Oma was a potter (ceramic artist as they are called today) and a mum she has taught me so many Dutch traditions that i hope to pass on to my children. My Oma from my Dad's side is one of the reasons why I am going to Paris, her portrait is in the louvre, when she was young her portrait was painted by a famous dutch artist and due to family issues the artist was never revealed but I have a picture of the portrait so i'm hoping armed with my photo I may be able to track down the history and whilst i have been told the portrait is perhaps archived they will be able to find it and even produce a canvas copy for me, well fingers crossed! Any-way all I can say is life is so precious and our grandparents are so filled with wisdom and amazing stories that given the time to listen are so of most most cherished memories.

14 comments:

Oliveaux said...

My condolences to you & your family. What an amazing legacy & such fabulous memories you have to treasure. I hope that you come back with your canvas! Amanda x

a bear said...

you are a very lucky person in that you had these amazing people to help become who you are today.
your memories will always return to you and bring with them a warm feeling and a rise smile for to have a family that you have is to be steps ahead of many others
i know that with the right passion you will get your art work and have some amazing new memories to share

vicki archer said...

I am so sorry about your grandmother - what an inspirational woman. Enjoy your Parisian journey, I am sure she will be watching over you and guiding your steps all the way.

Celia said...

I don't remember my grandparents (none of the 4) because I was a baby when they all passed.
But I had my "grand-aunt" and uncle that were for me and my brother like our grandparents and there's no one single day I don't think about any of them. They gave me such a happy childhood, many histories, and a great heritage; the love for laugh and seeing always the glass full, no matter what happens, it's always full, even if you're thirsty!!!!
You may so strong now because it's a hard time you'll going through now but what helped me was talking about them so much (I still do so with my kids) and keep them with you everyday in your thoughts and talks.
So sorry for your loss!

Rumour has it said...

What a rich and 'full' life your grandmother seems to have had. It's a blessing to have grandparents like yours who can teach their descendants so much wisdom and the 'grandeur' of life. That's a wealth to be really proud of. I'm sure she'll continue from Heaven to be there for all of you! Love, Marjolijn

Millie said...

A truly remarkable life! I know she will remain in your thoughts & heart always. Take care Judy.
Millie ^_^

Alison Gibbs said...

So sad for your loss.
What wonderful memories she has left behind for you.
Alison

mondocherry said...

Sorry to hear of your loss. I hope things go smoothly finding your portrait, what a special and unique keepsake.
Clare

Villa Anna said...

I second everything Amanda said. I know the sadness of losing grandparents and my thoughts and prayers are with you friend.

Anna xox.

blah said...

Judy - I'm so sorry to hear about your Oma. I send you a hug.

Linda Lou said...

So sorry to hear about the loss of Oma. Memories of special people like her will always be with you.

lily-g said...

Thank you so much to all my wonderful, kind blogging friends who always make my day a great one x

The House That A-M Built said...

What wonderful memories you have. I am sorry that you have lost your Oma... you were blessed to have cherished her in your adult life. I lost all mine when I was a 'tacker'. A-M xx

Miss Kris said...

I'm so sorry that you lost your Oma. Grandparents are the most wonderful people in our lives that will be cherished forever. tear tear...I lost my Grumpy in December and I think of him all the time. Great memories...kindly Kris