Sunday, July 6, 2025

Sunday, July 6, 2025

Tonight's picture was taken in July of 2009. In front of us was a handmade birthday card that Mattie created for me with the help of my in-laws. Together we went on many trips to North Carolina and saw countless lighthouses. They made a replica of Bodie Light (in the Outer Banks), and formed it into a card. At that moment in time, I really thought we would have more time with Mattie. Two months after this photo was taken, Mattie died.  

Quote of the day: Disappointment is a sort of bankruptcy—the bankruptcy of a soul that expends too much in hope and expectation. ~ Eric Hoffer

When we moved into this house, we planted MANY rubrum lily bulbs. We did this because I love these flowers. I love their shape, look, and fragrance! You should have seen my garden this week. I had 100s of lilies! I cut many of them and put them in the house. The rest, I cut back. The stalks are so thick and fibrous, it is truly amazing! The strength and beauty of nature!

As one friend said to me, these flowers are a tribute to the love and beauty that once defined my life. 

The lilies were taking over! They are so heavy, that there was no way to effectively prop them up! I have tried trellises, tying them up to garden stakes, but nothing worked. So they instead grew side ways! 

I should mention that these lilies pop open around the Fourth of July! To me they look like fireworks, and are so well timed with the season!

When I tell you I have lilies everywhere, I am not kidding! The only sad part about the lilies are they are one hit wonders for the season. But they did not disappoint this July 4th!