I wrapped up 2014 having surgery to remove parts that were behaving badly. I was terrified and told only the few who would be impacted by my absence, lying to those who could get along just fine without me.
I timed the surgery to allow me to pop back into circulation in time for the Naperville Garden Club’s Cup of Cheer™ House Walk, Holiday Market and Tea.
Since I felt I was facing the possibility of death, I decided to prepare for it. I wrote my obituary, highlighting where updates could be made and had my picture taken. (Do you like my new photo?) I could have gone through this experience with no one finding out, but my minister and fellow columnist, Bob Atkins, stopped in to see me and asked if I would like to be on the prayer list in the church bulletin. And so, alert worshippers (and Naperville Garden Club friends) became aware of my situation.
Thankful for their prayers and support, I now know that “going dark” wasn’t the best idea after all. But, I recovered in time to assume my duties at the Cup of Cheer™ House Walk, Holiday Market and Tea. As scholarship chairperson, I thank all who came to this year’s event, helping us give scholarships to local students.
Looking ahead to 2015, I’m planning a new herb garden and am enjoying learning about Midwestern herb gardens.
My younger son, Matt, is marrying a wonderful young lady, Amy, this summer. I am so thankful that both of my sons have given me wonderful daughters-in-law!
Christian and Nichole’s children, Addy (4) and Alex (2), will join the bridal party. Grandpa Kent and I will be “harvesting” snowballs for them again this winter. Addy had so much fun with her summer snowball fight last year.
I hope each of my readers has something fun to look forward to in 2015, including a new gardening project and spending time with friends and family.
