When Chris died, I was left with a closet full of his clothes and didn’t know what to do with them. I started giving them away before my sister-in-law stopped me. “You need to save them! Maybe make a memory quilt for Chad and Shane or for yourself out of Chris’ favorite shirts. Or stuffed animals for your grandchildren.” Well, none of us wanted a quilt, and I didn’t have any grandchildren on the horizon. Over time, I sorted out his favorite clothing to keep. (Chris had a lot of favorites.)

Three years passed, and I now had a granddaughter on the way. But every time I tried to pick out which item(s) of clothing to use first, it was too emotionally overwhelming. I could still envision Chris wearing those clothes. With the help of two dear friends, I was finally able to make a decision.

Love, Grandpappy (click photo to enlarge)

I chose to have a small “security blanket” made for Elena to hold on to when she needed comfort—small enough to put in a diaper bag or purse when away from home. One side is from a soft pullover, and the other from a slick shirt. With all the dark blues, grays, and black that Chris wore, he, fortunately, also had two shirts with pink…. perfect for a teddy bear.

Elena has her own Instagram account for family and close friends. “She” posted, “I've received lots of gifts lately, but the most thoughtful are my bear and blankie made from my Grandpappy's shirts. I wish I could have met him!”

Another special gift was a baby ring given to Elena from her great grandmother, who wore it as a baby. So did I. The ring originally came from Elena’s great, great, great grandmother.