A common practice at the end of the school year was receiving gifts from my students. Some were homecrafted. Some were purchased. I have received gift cards, flowers and even produce from a family who owned a market garden and orchard. All gifts were greatly appreciated, no matter the value – as they were true gifts from the heart.
One year, a sweet young student named Meagan gave me a small set of wind chimes. They were simple, beautiful and calming, very much like Meagan herself. Those wind chimes became a fixture on my porch and each time the air moved, the tranquil sound brought back the memories of Meagan and our time together over the 4 years where we shared a classroom. Now, she has grown into a beautiful young woman, wife and mama. I would like her to know that whenever I hear a wind chime, I think of Meagan.
Over my 3 score and 4 years, I have received many gifts. Understandably, I don’t remember them all. In the present chapter of my life, where gardens and growing things bring me such joy, the botanical gifts that I have received from others are remembered and appreciated so much.
My friend and former co-worker, Candy, gifted me this hydrangea for my retirement last June. I have never owned a hydrangea before and wondered how it would survive over the winter. It seems to be coming back! One year at a time.
Marilyn is a dear friend from my church, who gladly shared perennials from her garden when I was developing new gardens at my current home. This sedum and iris are from her and are welcome additions to my home. Every time I see them, I think of her.
Alvin, the frog, was a birthday gift from Patrick, Stephanie, Brooklyn and Jackson. He is an adorable addition to my “scuffler bed” and is quite the whimsical feature! I love him, guys!
This daylily was given to me by a neighbour and former co-worker, Anne. She has beautiful gardens and gladly shared a few of these beauties with me.
Nick and Amy gifted me this plant hanger over a decade ago but the bird feeder is new this year, for my birthday, from their whole family. An added bonus is that this is also a solar light and quite a showy night-time feature. The birds love it! I’ve had many feathered friends feast here. Goldfinches, red-winged blackbirds and even orioles have visited this feeder. And in turn, the birds have given me another gift, unknowingly. (see below)
Sunflowers that were dropped from the feeder have germinated and started plants – gifts from the birds! I’m not certain how long they will survive, but they have a new home at the base of my rock wall. A very special gift!
We may think that we are nurturing our garden, but of course it’s our garden that is really nurturing us. – Jenny Uglow
Gifts are with us for a time, but the memory of the giver lasts a lifetime. Whenever I see them, I think of you. Thank you!
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