Memories of Ms. Bald and the Stone House
Mrs. Bald was a neighbor of my family’s when I was growing up. She lived in a beautiful stone house that was built in 1842 about ½ mile from our house. She was English and might have been in her sixties at the time of this story. I remember how she was always elegantly dressed and ready for any occasion. I absolutely loved her accent and thought she had impeccable manners – which added to my admiration of her.
So, at this time in the 1980’s; I had invited her to one of my ballet performances which she graciously voiced an interest in coming to. Unfortunately, Mrs. Bald thought she might be out of town that day and I put it out of my mind. On the day of the performance, as I was getting ready; I was notified that I had a guest! Who was it? I made my way down the numerous flights of stairs and as I got towards the bottom of the steps, I saw her! I remember her long silvery hair swept upwards on her head and coiled gently. She was wearing a white silk blouse with delicate pearls around her neck. Then there was the flowing skirt and sensible shoes.
I can still see the little blue with flowers over the dark fabric.
As we climbed the stairs up towards the dance studio, I felt myself get taller with each step up and my smile continue to grow. Mrs. Bald had come to see me dance! We were “kindred spirits” as Anne of Green Gables would say, and I am thankful for the memory of this story. I don’t think she ever knew how much I admired her.
Sadly, Mrs. Bald passed a few years afterwards. I was in college and didn’t have a chance to say goodbye. Whenever I go by the house, I have wondered who was living there. Sadly, for many years, the house appeared neglected. Then, yesterday; I was passing by and just decided to stop. The community is small, and I assumed that my car would be noticed right away. Sure enough, someone came to inquire what I was doing. Luckily, they turned out to be the caretakers and said I could walk around and take pictures. I am very appreciative for this and am glad that I had permission. Hopefully, one day I will be able to go inside this beautiful house.
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