Remembering Cat: One Year Later – August 22, 2012

In what is likely to be the final planting I do for the year, I spent the morning creating a memorial garden. I planted Metasequoia glyptostroboides ‘Gold Rush’ as well as an under-planting of Meconopsis x sheldonii ‘Lingholm’, Cyclamen henerofolium ‘Sweetheart Splash’ as well as Epimedium ‘Thunderbolt’ in memory of my dear friend Cathy who passed away a year ago today. It is in no way close to completion. I hope to incorporate the small expanse of lawn between where this tree is planted and the edge of the veranda to include a piece of statuary, pea stone, perhaps a bench, and much more planting! [I have always threatened my Sister that I want to eradicate the front lawn entirely!]

Moments like this inevitably show the passage of time. It is said that time heals all wounds. It is also said that the healing process cannot be measured with time. The heart and soul heal of their own accord.

Cat’s last words to me were: ‘You have the heart and soul of a writer,’ and in the weeks and months following her passing I resolved to take those very words and return to writing. I have always wanted to write – a book, a garden memoir, an essay for a gardening magazine – and yet it never seems to come to fruition. I have  started a new ‘novella’ of sorts – based largely on a life that included Cathy and a colourful group of rapscallion friends who in their own endearing ways have each and collectively influenced my life in ways that are only now becoming clear.

I am in touch with close friends who were also blessed by Cat’s presence in their lives. Guilt amongst friends has blessedly turned into a rekindling of friendships – a picking up of pieces that were inadvertently dropped along life’s pathways. I can see Cat’s beatific smile, so happy to know that the golden circle of friends remains intact! A band of silver gracefully hangs around my neck, a reminder of an endearing friendship that, while it has been inextricably altered in its physical state, will forever remain in its spiritual form as one of the most important elements of my life. You will forever be close to those who loved and cared for you most –  your husband, son, parents – and those of us who were truly touched and blessed with your loving friendship. Rest peacefully dearheart!