by Esther P. Chase

Yet Another Graduation Charm for a Charm Bracelet

Steve and I selected a 14kt white gold college graduation charm to add to Elizabeth's sterling silver and gold charms bracelet jewelry collection . Elizabeth had graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with honors and was accepted to the U of P Veterinary Medicine College. Elizabeth had decided to specialize in domestic land animals, which consists of companion pets and farm animals. We searched the collection of 14kt gold charms for charms bracelets and I ordered the pig charm. Elizabeth's grandmother appreciated the irony of the pig charm. We both remember her refusal to buy me a pig charm for my first charms bracelet.

Stevie had called before his summer break from Harvard Law to say he would bring home a "friend" for a week or two. His sister had told me to expect this call (obviously she knew more about his social life than I did), so I had calmly advised I would have the guest room ready. I wondered how many would be "sleeping" in the guest room.

Stevie's friend, Laura, was a lovely and charming young woman. It was obvious Stevie was very taken with her. Laura had just finished her first year at Harvard Law. Her parents lived just outside of Boston and her father was the head of his own law firm. Stevie had met Laura's parents and had great respect for them. Elizabeth was also home for the summer break. The house was once again very lively. At dinner one night, Laura admired Elizabeth's charms bracelet and the stories of all the charms had to be told. A few days later, Stevie asked if he could show Laura his charms bracelet. I knew in that moment, Laura would be my future daughter-in-law. Tradition is strong in our family, and I knew Stevie would not have shown Laura his gold charms and sterling silver charms from his charm bracelet collection if he didn't consider her "special." With a serious tone, Stevie told Laura his charms bracelet would be a wedding gift for his future bride.

Elizabeth thoroughly enjoyed University of Pennsylvania's veterinary school. It had been a life-long dream of hers and she did not mind all the hard work. I, however, did worry because her schedule and dedication seemed to leave room for only "casual" friendships. I was hoping for a "permanent" friendship, followed by many grandchildren.

Chapter 14 - Engagement Ring Charms for Stevie's Charms Bracelet