In talking with a close friend last week, I was reminded of how memories are often held in our possessions. Perhaps you remember a special piece in your family that makes you instantly think of a loved one

My friend, Debra, was taken back to her younger years by a painting of a blue porcelain pitcher that reminded her of a pitcher her family used for lemonade.

Now that she has grandchildren of her own, Debra told me about her family pitcher and who has it now 40 years later.

Many times at appraisal events someone brings pieces identified only as ‘my grandmother’s necklace” or “my father’s railroad pocket watch.” These possessions mean so much to those now entrusted with them.

The idea of monetary value quickly fades as the value of the pieces becomes clear.

Some of us who have no tangible pieces from our family find that collecting antique objects is a soothing passion on its own.

Entrust the next generation with stories related to your pieces they will remember.

Once a piece’s story is told, the connection between then and now is irresistible.

Lemonade recipe - circa 1931

My Charleston and Virginia grandmothers made versions of this served in a huge crystal punch bowl. Don’t use a silver punch bowl. Lemonade will mar it permanently.

Juice 8 or 9 large lemons. We used glass juicers. Place a lemon half over the center; gathering the juice in the well.

Place 2 cups of white sugar in a large pitcher. Add water to the top.

My Charleston grandmother would add slices of frozen orange to the glass before she poured in the lemonade. Slice 1/4 thick and freeze in a single layer with peel on.

My Virginia grandmother would add maraschino cherries- and their juice.

Add sugar or Splenda.

Each time I make this for a party, I freeze an ice ring of the prepared lemonade in a bunt pan that perfectly fits the interior of my punch bowl. I have seen my grandmother do this a hundred times. It is beautiful as you can do as she did and add the orange slices which freeze in the ice ring keeping the lemonade from being diluted by ice. I also add cherries to the ice ring.

Freeze the ice ring the night before as it will take all night to completely freeze.

Make sure to set it on a level surface in your freezer uncovered.

Debra’s blue pitcher and my punch bowl are all set to make memories.