Close to home

Recent happenings, both happy and sad, have got me thinking often about my old home town, and about the family and friends from there with whom I love spending time.  My mom's recent stay in the hospital, the delighted phone calls from my two grandmas who really loved their valentines from the boys, my friend losing her father, the much anticipated upcoming visits from my two brothers and a planned girls' shopping trip with my mom and my aunt have all made me feel especially close to my roots lately, even though life has branched off in different directions for many of us over the years.

I love the life Matt, the boys and I have built here in Waterloo; we have wonderful friends, engaging activities to participate in, and a house, yard and neighbourhood that truly feel like home.  Living far from most of my extended family and old, cherished friends, though, means that I will always feel like there is something missing.

When I was browsing recently on Etsy (if you're not familiar with Etsy, oh, do go and take a look!  But beware -- it's a place filled with beautiful handmade items and you're sure to find something you MUST have!), I came across this lovely vintage map pendant. 

The seller will custom create a pendant showing any location that's dear to you, and I knew this necklace was the perfect way for me to wear my heart on my.... well, neck.  Since my pendant arrived in the mail, I have worn it often, and it makes me feel, in some small physical way, that I'm connected to all of those Saultites, past and present, for whom I have a deep fondness.

If you'd like to wear a special place close to your heart, you can order your own custom map pendant here.  I love the way mine makes my home town feel somehow nearer until I can go back to visit again.