It started at four, without realizing what was happening, Aunt Mona’s watch beckoned me and mesmerized my innocent eye.

The tiny perfect pink rose encased in a turquoise blue lacquer surrounded by scallops of gold.

It dangled from the most perfect gold bow hanging on her twin set. It wasn’t more than the size of a quarter, but oh, it was magnificent! Grammas best friend came to visit often, always wearing that magnificent pin.

One night, I sat on the living room floor in front of her staring at the little pin for over an hour. I couldn’t believe it when it fell to her lap, then onto the carpet in front of the couch where she was sitting. When the time was right, I carefully gently tapped it under the couch, just a smidge.

When the visit ended, I retrieved the treasure the hurried into bed, where I slept with it cradled in my hands. I couldn’t believe I was actually holding the little gem! I had lofty dreams of all sorts of jewels that night, I’m sure the little watch opened the door to my lifelong passion for jewels.

It was, and is magic!

It holds a special place in my heart and my life. I painted it, and I think it is one of the most memorable pieces of art. It is delicate and beautiful. I painted it surrounded in her lace handkerchief.