Monday, July 1, 2024

Monday, July 1, 2024

Tonight's picture was taken in July of 2007. Mattie was five years old and that weekend, we went for a walk on Roosevelt Island. Mattie never got tired of exploring this amazing place. Whether it was feeding the ducks, climbing rocks, walking trails, or collecting leaves, rocks, and branches..... there was something there that always caught Mattie's attention and imagination.  Of course watching Mattie absorb his environment was a great gift and through him I saw the world in a whole new light. 

Quote of the day: My heart no longer felt as if it belonged to me. It now felt as it had been stolen, torn from my chest by someone who wanted no part of it. ~ Meredith Taylor

Today my friend Christine came over to visit with my mom and I and we had lunch together. The beauty of our friendship is we can pick up from where we left off. I met Christine, when Mattie was in kindergarten. Her son, Campbell, and Mattie were the best of friends. Through their play dates and time together, Christine and I got to know one another. Sometimes children can form bonds, but that doesn't always translate down to the parents. 

Mattie died in 2009, and all these years later, we still share a special bond and friendship. I had the opportunity to walk Christine through the gardens and my house. What I loved was Christine felt that my rooms were created by a designer. But here's the thing. I never hired a designer, all the arrangements, layouts, and art work, came from my own vision. My point of sharing this comment is Christine reminded me that yes indeed I am creative. When doing daily tasks, paying bills, putting out fires, caregiving around the clock, and managing a house, it is easy to forget my other skills and things that I used to like to do. Today's conversation made me remember! Christine shared many gifts with me today, such a tea (Elderberry Wine and Dreamberry Rooibus) and this beautiful drift wood garden ornament. I can't wait to try the tea tonight. It is my one special treat at night. 

Can you see the drift wood art near the roses? I think it works, and I love supporting local artists. 

I finished one chocolate bar and now I am onto another. The amount of chocolate I consume is directly related to how badly I am feeling! 

Three things I am grateful for:

1. Friends who remain steadfast, committed, and there to remind me that my presence is important. 
2. A beautiful piece of garden art! A new addition to the front yard!
3. Butterflies fluttering all about my hydrangeas and butterfly bushes!