78 Comments
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Kristin Campbell's avatar

You had me laughing and crying the whole way through. PLEASE write a memoir.

Meg Stemp's avatar

Could not agree more!

Dallas Thompson's avatar

Virginia, this essay is stunningly beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

Lindsay Sword's avatar

This is one of the best pieces of writing I’ve ever read. You are an inspiration, and everyone should read this.

Jenny Dover's avatar

What a beautiful, terrible, inspiring story. You are as talented with your words as you are your shopping. You are a testament to what an incredible woman your grandmother was. How proud she must be!

Sheila (of Ephemera)'s avatar

This was a shocking, horrifying and yet beautiful story of love between three generations of women, and how they took care of each other. Thank you.💕

Congratulations on your success. You deserve it. And here’s to the patina.

David @ Design Talk's avatar

Thank you so much for sharing. Lots of feelings and food for thought, but I just have to say that your grandmother sounds like an absolute boss.

Virginia Chamlee's avatar

She was the ultimate ❤️

Dawn Rodriguez's avatar

I can also attest ❤️

Hurley Winkler's avatar

This essay stunned me. Absolutely beautifully written. Thank you for your openness and vulnerability.

Colleen Moutsos's avatar

Wow!! Thank you for sharing your experiences and your world. Very brave and heartfelt, and although there is much sadness, you show us in your daily posts the continued joy in your life. It is an honour to care for those who cannot care for themselves . . . your personal story, bravery and thrift energies are amazing. Stand proud. You have done well and bring fun, mindfulness and joy to many worldwide . . . thank you.

Serah's avatar

I already knew you had a gift, and now I appreciate it even more! Thank you for sharing this beautiful story.

Best Friends's avatar

❤️❤️❤️

kt's avatar

Thank you so much for writing this. I look forward to reading your memoir someday.

Makenzi Grau's avatar

Virginia, thank you so much for sharing your story — and how beautifully told. You have so many gifts and offer inspiration to so many, myself included! It’s an honor to watch your growth + success from Northwest Florida. 🤍

Izzie Girl's avatar

Gutsy lady to share your beautiful tragic story. Thank you!

Sara Brumfield's avatar

This is beautiful. Thank you.

Jocelyn Zaslaw's avatar

I know exactly what you're going through. A month after having twins my mother had a massive stroke.

So I was taking care of newborn twins and overseeing my mom. My father tried but the majority of her care fell to me.

She lasted 7 years.

My kids are 26 now and I wonder how I did it all.

But my mom inspired my vintage business!

Virginia Chamlee's avatar

I’m so sorry to hear that. I am glad you are taking care of yourself ❤️

Jocelyn Zaslaw's avatar

I also wanted to thank you for such great content !

Virginia Chamlee's avatar

Incredibly kind of you! Means so much to me.

Katie Portman's avatar

A beautiful piece. Moving and inspiring. (You’re not just good at finding treasure. You’re a wonderful writer too.) With love from the UK. X

Virginia Chamlee's avatar

Thank you Katie I really really needed this today