Grandma’s Bra (A Love Story)

Watching Our Soaps - Drawing by S. J. Frederick, 7 years old

I was just thinking of a memory from my childhood (that many my age may have). It is of grandma pulling a butterscotch hard candy out of her bra and giving it to me. (I know… gross. Thank goodness it still had its wrapper). What would be an equivalent treat that I could give you today so you have that same feeling of sweetness, comfort and love?

I don’t know why she carried a purse and pocketbook, as she would keep her money, candy and small toys there. They were tucked away, warm and safe which is how she made me feel.

Snacks were Saltine crackers with butter (when money wasn’t funny, then it was just Saltines) and hot tea with milk and sugar cubes. I used to try to steal more sugar cubes and she would gently slap my hand, LOL! That was the best. I think she was purposely slow at this, as I always got a few more. I thought I had done something extraordinary (every time). It’s funny the things you remember. 😊

Fresh laundry from the dryer from the neighborhood laundromat, Flex shampoo and Ivory bar soap were usual aromas. She would use VO5 in her and my sister’s hair to make pin curls. I would be so jealous, but my hair was already curly.

When sick, she would rub Vicks VapoRub on our chest and make us hot tea with blackberry brandy for sleep. To feel so lousy and so cared for is a feeling I still cherish and pray that you have similar feelings of love and care.

The butterscotch was never really about candy. It was about someone who kept sweetness close to her heart and gave it freely. Maybe that's all any of us need.