My Gran, Lily

Meet Lily Martin, nee Hosty, a.k.a. my Gran.

Gran lived with us when we moved to Eastbourne from Essex. I thoughtshe was with us until I was 7 or so, but I have it on good authority (my sister) that Gran died the day my sister took me to see 'Mary Poppins' - and that was released in December 1965.

This acrylic painting is from a time about 4 years before she died, when all the family were on holiday together. I love how you can almost feel her thinking of moving to sit up or get up, and the colour and fragile texture of her skin.

I found a couple of postcards my Mum had written to Gran, and both begin 'Dearest Mums', so that is quietly added in Mum's handwriting to the painting.

I have strong memories of Gran - even though I was small. I used to sneak into her bedroom first thing, and sit on her bed - she had a mohair throw which I found scratchy. She would get me to open her bedside cupboard and help me pour her a glass of Creme de Menthe, and I would be offered a Creme de Menthe Turkish Delight a sneaky treats - and then we would go down for breakfast! Great Grandparenting Gran!

Acrylic painting on 30 x 30cm panel, framed.