The Vase

I knew mom and dad would like the gift I had in mind. I looked at it each time I went through the arcade off Broad street in Philadelphia in 1958.
It was a beautiful turquoise blue glass vase, wide at the bottom gradually tapered to the lip. At the time, it appeared to be 5 ft tall and expensive.
Twenty dollars was a lot when my weekly take home pay was less than thirty dollars, so, I put it in layaway and after a few weeks I presented them with the beautiful turquoise vase and they loved it and I was a very proud nineteen year old.
Over the years I saw that vase swathed in blankets and pillows and handled as gently as one would a newborn with each move mom and dad made, and there were at least ten …
Once, dad wanted to paint it to match their decor and asked if I would mind. I didn’t mind, it was theirs, so he tested a little paint on the bottom, let it dry then removed it. Since there was no damage the turquoise vase became orange for a couple years ,thereby, maintaining its usual place with its new outfit.
It stayed orange for quite a few years until dad decided the original color was more appropriate for his new color scheme.
Whichever room it occupies, basks in the turquoise blue reflection that emanates from this 37 year old, 3ft high treasured gift of glass that has lived in PA, MD, VA, and TX
A treasured gift that has come full circle, having been given to me by my mom.
©1995 Joyce E Coley


January 12, 2005
In the ten years I’ve had it.. it has endured more swathing and gentle handling in a couple of my moves.
Today that vase sits in an honored place in my living room, still emanating the turquoise reflection of memories. My wish is for it to remain a memory long after I am gone..


January 12, 2006
These days blue lights cast an extra sparkle reflected through a mirror onto the vase .. a calming sight..

November 16, 2010
It is looking down on me as I sit at my computer … with one, ever so slight crack near the top.

Not bad for surviving 52 years ... so far.