My grandparents’ small home was a place where nothing was in excess except comfort, peace, and laughter. As a child I would stay the night with them at their house. Grandma and I would sleep in their bed while Grandaddy slept on the couch. I slept so deep in those cool sheets, thinned by time, knowing they were there with me. When I was older and I’d visit, tired by the demands of an adult day, Grandaddy would say “go in there and stretch out” meaning go take a nap. I’d refuse because I was too busy and he would urge me to, until I found myself in a deep sleep in thosesame familiar sheets. I now realize it was their gift to me, peace and rest in the midst of a chaotic day. They knew what I needed more than I did. This piece, on fabric reminiscent of their sheets, commemorates memories made in the home of some of my dearest friends, where laughter abounded, needlepoint projects hung on the walls and were seen in process on a nightstand, and kindness beamed from wrinkled faces.
all images © Holly M Graham 2022
