MAY ENVELOPS US in HOPE and BEAUTY - 2022

Yes! Removing the mask restrictions is a relief and a tonic for our souls. May it last! My first entry into a store maskless, filled me with joy like a small excited child.

Below my flowering plum drops its magnificent petals on my coral bells, penstemen and more.

I’m forever awestruck at how, in April, everything springs up like Jack in the boxes. Some plants grow four inches after a rain. This year we had more than usual heavy rainy gloomy days in early spring but then like the twirling of a fairy godmother’s glistening wand the intense vibrancy of Spring revealed her aliveness. Ever since my husband David retired I have a full-time gardener.  I never anticipated such a gift! He revels in molding the earth and examining the needs of every diverse corner of our garden. He becomes One with spade and hoe. I of course remain the symphonic conductor raising my baton to choose the preferred flora and placements in artistic harmony!  For the moment I'm glad to take a backseat to all the heavier lifting and endless weeding.  David truly shares in the larger perspective of our garden and it makes the vision so much more attainable and pleasurable.

A small rhodie graces our front border with native fringe cups and yarrow behind.

Here on our side border, against a large filbert tree is a massive drift of native fringe cups, with giant foxglove behind.

Through the grace of generous inheritance from my parents, David and I were able to do some much needed remodeling in and outside of our home.   Malfunctioning drainage in our driveway turned into a large concrete project and now we have a new carport replete with huge planter and a renovated courtyard. Who knew concrete could be so beautiful! A fresh new paint job will be the icing on the cake in June! 

As I get older now, my perspective seems to change, deepen and oddly become more narrow. I cherish simplicity.  I eschew complications as much as possible. I am far less goal oriented and relish my own company and happiness in the NOW. Although I cherish my friends, my family is like the sweetest essence of an exotic fruit, partaken on a serene coastal day. Having two grown, extraordinary sons with phenomenal wives deeply fills my heart. Being a grandparent is a joy beyond words! With age, you know what you like; you don’t have to test every option that comes along. You also know better than to care too much about what others say or think. You truly become your own person.

I accept that like everyone, I will pass on at some unknown time and I surrender to that more and more. I do wish to live my remaining years in contentment and love, but unlike when I was younger, I no longer think this is something that happens to others and not me! It is the cycle of life. Of course I wish to stay fit so I can appreciate my remaining time but I am letting go of the strivings and uncertainties of my youth. I remind myself each day of the preciousness of ‘this day’ which will never return. 

As always I listen to and learn from the great spiritual teachers of our time and those who came before. Presently I am listening to Michael Newton, PH.d who through hypnosis over decades, has been able to uncover his subjects’ hidden memories of life in the spirit world after physical death and descriptions of what happened to them between lives. His research is professional, ethical and brilliant. Fascinating read for anyone who is interested in afterlife experiences.

My Cavapoo Josie and me:) She adds pure delight to David and myself.

Next Up: Roses and Pathways in an Ever-changing garden!