mariel schmitt

Now I would never want to brag about the gifts I've received from my Grandma without also highlighting some of my most special material blessings from my Oma.  You may remember her from  my February 15 post where she is featured in a special 60 years of marriage collage with my Papa.  They recently downsized and moved states - not a small feat in your 80's!  Instead of moving all of her things, she decided to pass down some of her treasures to me including her all of her china, silver serving trays,  linens, crystal glasses, vases and silver.  Can you say WOW!?  And although I have such an abundance of lovely things, I think these are my favorite:

These may just look like any old pieces of silver.  But if you take a closer look you will see how very special they are:

Monograms!  I love these spoons and forks with my Oma's maiden initials, married initials and my father's name so elegantly engraved on the handles!  Oma says some were gifts from her father and others were gifts sent over from relatives in Germany.  I think these are so special and I am excited to enjoy them in my future home and to pass them down for generations to come.  I hope they will always initiate sweet conversations and stories about my dear precious Oma.