My best friend lost her beautiful laughing mom 4 years ago.
She brought many things into our lives.
She had a beautiful laugh – not polite and quiet but the sound a lion would make if you were tickling him – one that was so distinct and full of a love of life that when her daughter does it or her granddaughters, it gives me a shiver.
She worked hard and loved deeply. She loved to play. She was so kind and good and had so many friends. Sometimes so many people would drop by her beautiful cottage on the island, that she would be serving cocktails and appetizers for days.
If she was running out of steam, she would lie down for 15 minutes on the floor of the cottage for a power nap.
That would do it.
She loved flowers. Her island cottage was famous for the flowers. There were dozens of enormous flower beds and large overstuffed planters all over the boathouses and docks. Many boats drove right over the rocks and wrecked their propellers just to get a close look and maybe a photo.
Just before she died in May four years ago, she made her family promise that the flowers would look their best again that summer- even without her.
Her family did not disappoint.
Every year around this time, my friend, 7 women and a big dog, leave the city by 6 am, quick stop for starbucks and we talk all the way to Muskoka. We get in a boat and go to their island and plant 5000 flowers in my friend’s mom’s memory.
Sometimes I am smart enough to put myself in the position to do a very small thing for some of the finest people I know.
What a lovely thing to do… what a good, solid woman you are, friend! xox
That’s a lovely tribute!
xoxoxoxoxoxxo me
I knew you would like this one, Christine.
Yes an indelible and powerful legacy indeed! xn
What an amazing thing to do. I could picture this wonderful woman in your words. I can’t think of a better way to be remembered. We should all aspire to leaving behind such a positive loving happy legacy.
sue
Xo
Nance
This is so beautifully written and full of love. You remember my mom the way I do and that is such a blessing. I love when we all get together and plant for one day. when it is peaceful and quiet. My mom’s friends were so very important to her as are mine and i know she would be so thrilled that we have continued a wonderful tradition. My dad looks forward to the arrival of the “ladies” every year. Thanks for sharing this special day with me, remembering my mom and being the best friend anyone could ever hope to be.
Love you tons.
A tradition to look forward to every year while keeping you completely connected to your friends while paying tribute to a wonderful soul. What a lovely thing!