Have you ever ordered an outfit for an event and then suddenly realized it might not arrive in time? That was my predicament as I prepared for a much-anticipated gathering last week. This occasion marked the first social event for my book club and their partners since the pandemic hit, celebrating the launch of my debut novel. We decided on a 1950s cocktail party theme to make it extra special.
A dear friend kindly offered to host the event at her beautifully renovated historic home, a place famous for its lively gatherings from years gone by. When she and her husband moved in, they discovered walls adorned with signatures from past guests.
As the event approached, excitement buzzed among my friends as we shared photos of era-appropriate dresses online, debating which styles were best. Our menu was also taking shape, featuring a delightful array of finger foods like pimento cheese sandwiches, stuffed mushrooms, deviled eggs, and a lavish Bundt cake. To top it off, we planned a punch bowl filled with sherbet and Sprite.
As I reviewed my to-do list, I realized I had ordered a charming tea-length dress with a full skirt, tiny waist, and capped sleeves in a lovely sky blue. I was eager to wear it and embrace the elegance of the past. But when it failed to arrive on the expected day, I found myself in a panic.
Fortunately, I live close to my parents, who still kept old prom and bridesmaid dresses in their attic. I quickly rummaged through the options, grabbing an armful to try on while my four kids waited in the car. Then, I remembered my grandma. I wondered if she had any vintage dresses tucked away.
My grandma, who carried herself with the grace of royalty despite her humble farming roots in South Dakota, had a flair for fashion. At 101, she still lived in her home, and I hoped she might have a cocktail dress hidden away.
I asked her, and to my delight, she revealed two stunning vintage dresses in perfect condition.
Arriving at her townhouse, my kids and I were a bit sandy from our afternoon at the nearby river. I worried about tracking dirt into her immaculate home, but she welcomed us warmly. The familiar scent of her kitchen enveloped me as I stepped inside.
Grandma adored her clothes, each piece holding a cherished memory. She shared stories of joyous moments spent in her dresses while I admired them. One was a brown sleeveless design with elegant black stitching, while the other was a classic black tea-length dress adorned with lace.
As my little ones took turns visiting Grandma in her favorite chair, I could see how much she cherished them. “Oh, dear,” she said fondly, “they are so special.” I felt the warmth of her love reflected in her gaze.
Before leaving, I expressed my gratitude, “Grandma, you have given me so much. I’m so fortunate to have a grandmother who has always supported me.” She smiled knowingly, her eyes sparkling, and playfully punched the air, as if to affirm, “Of course, I do!”
She sent me home with a black sequin clutch and sparkling earrings.
The party was a beautiful affair. My husband and I raised a glass to our friends who stood by us during the most challenging time of our lives when he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome on Valentine’s Day 2019. This sudden illness left him a quadriplegic on a ventilator within days, and it took him fifteen weeks to regain mobility after a long recovery.
This gathering was not only a celebration of my husband’s remarkable recovery but also honored my book, The Other Side of Us: A Memoir of Trauma, Truth, and Transformation, which sheds light on the insights we gained during those tough times.
The party took place on Saturday, and on Monday morning, I received a call from my dad informing me that Grandma had passed away. My heart sank, but I knew she had lived a full life.
Reflecting on the weekend, I realized that not receiving my dress was a hidden blessing. If it had arrived on time, I wouldn’t have had the chance to see Grandma one last time. My children wouldn’t have been able to visit her to say hello or goodbye. We wouldn’t have been able to cherish those moments with her as she smiled at us from her chair. That memory—her radiant love—will stay with me forever.
I am deeply thankful that my dress was delayed. The timing felt serendipitous, reminding me that the universe is always working in mysterious ways, connecting seemingly unrelated events. Sometimes, those connections bring joy and harmony, while other times, they may seem frustrating or heartbreaking. Yet, with time and perspective, the larger picture often comes into view.
We are called to trust.
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Summary
A late dress order led to a heartfelt reunion with my grandma, providing a cherished memory as we celebrated my book launch. The serendipity of the situation reminded me of the unseen connections in life, encouraging trust in the universe’s timing.
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