It is remarkable how people heal, how they can move on from loss and heartache. Sue reminded me a few hours ago that this was a special day. In fact, May 25, 1927 was when my father, Wilfred LeHoullier, entered the world. It was a few years ago - on March 14, 2007 - when, a few months after suffering a severe stroke, he was finally at peace. Though I still miss him, my memories of him make me smile.
It is appropriate that I spent a few very enjoyable hours after work this afternoon working on the garden, and even more appropriate that I was busy planting tomatoes. Gardening wouldn't be such a passion of mine if it weren't for my dad. When I was very young, he took me on walks through gardens in Slater Park in Pawtucket, RI.
Many years later, the favor was returned when I sparked in my dad an interest in growing heirloom varieties in his little garden in Rhode Island. His favorites were Cherokee Purple and Cherokee Chocolate, and he grew them beautifully. For a handful of years leading up to his passing, he would start seeds I sent him, or grow the plants I mailed him. He kept a diary, which I wasn't aware of, documenting his garden successes, and it is something I treasure.
So, dad, happy birthday....when I am out working in the garden, you are beside me, giving me advice and sharing gardening stories. As they say, I owe it all to you!
It is appropriate that I spent a few very enjoyable hours after work this afternoon working on the garden, and even more appropriate that I was busy planting tomatoes. Gardening wouldn't be such a passion of mine if it weren't for my dad. When I was very young, he took me on walks through gardens in Slater Park in Pawtucket, RI.
Many years later, the favor was returned when I sparked in my dad an interest in growing heirloom varieties in his little garden in Rhode Island. His favorites were Cherokee Purple and Cherokee Chocolate, and he grew them beautifully. For a handful of years leading up to his passing, he would start seeds I sent him, or grow the plants I mailed him. He kept a diary, which I wasn't aware of, documenting his garden successes, and it is something I treasure.
So, dad, happy birthday....when I am out working in the garden, you are beside me, giving me advice and sharing gardening stories. As they say, I owe it all to you!
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