Granny's Luck 
Creating Magic in the Lives of Those You Love


Silently,

one by one,

in the infinite meadows of heaven

Blossomed the lovely stars,

the forget-me-nots of the angels.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1849

 

Introduction

It was 1951 and I was two years old when Granny died. I don't remember the day, but I'm told I was playing outside when Granny asked that I be brought in. She apparently asked me if I would take over for her and, I am told, I solemnly agreed. For over forty-five years, I've been trying to figure out just what that meant. I do remember her as a very kind and courageous woman, with a quick smile and a great sense of humor. Over the years I've discovered, through my mother, Bernadette, that there was much more to her than met the eye.

I also know that my grandmother had a spiritual side, was a devout Roman Catholic, and all that she did reflected how good her heart was. In spite of having more trials than rewards put in her path, I have always had the impression that she was eternally optimistic. Considering the time in which she lived, she was also a very "modern woman" in that she was responsible for her family without much help from my grandfather. When I look at her picture, though, I see a primordial woman, a tiny but powerful, gentle woman with a strong will and a closeness with nature.

My mother tells me of things that Granny did, such as preparing little good luck charms (gris-gris, pronounced "gree gree"), for her children, drawing forget-me-nots on cards, whispering little loving rhymes or prayers while she sprinkled sugar on freshly baked buttered bread, and making special "happy pillows" for persons who were sick or unhappy.

So perhaps by writing this book I am fulfilling my promise to Granny. This book will pass on some of the magic that Granny created in her life and in the lives of her many children (including my mother), and her grandchildren (like me).

I heard the name "Granny's Luck" whispered into my heart some years ago, but I didn't know what it meant then. Now I know.


 

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