Life is kind of difficult and busy right now, with frequent trips to the nursing home to attempt to get my mother-in-law, Nell, to eat. She isn't doing well after her fall and now weighs about 90 pounds. We are trying to prepare ourselves for the worse because it really doesn't look like she is going to pull through this time. After thirteen years with Alzheimer's we believe this is the end for her. It is heartbreaking and depressing to watch her waste away.
I'm trying to find and even create beauty in the midst of the sadness. It's difficult to feel sad when your looking at the incredible beauty of a peony. Yesterday I went outside and clipped off all of the ones in bloom and played with the camera. I brought them inside so I could enjoy looking at them. The only thing was there were a lot of ants hidden in all of those petals!
I'm very sorry about your mother-in-law. We went through a similar process with my grandmother not long ago. I think you have to right idea, to gather beauty around you to nurture yourself through this time. They really are beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThat's so sad, Robin. I hope you can find some peace as you deal with these tough times. Your peonies are beautiful. I'll bet your mother-in-law likes them, too.
ReplyDeleteI can't see your photos! Maybe it's just a temporary thing so I'll check back later, but wanted to leave a comment. I want to snip my purple peony and bring it in but I am wondering if there will be ants, too. Also, it's the only one in the garden so it looks pretty right where it is!
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry your mother in law's illness is taking such a toll on her...it is a horrible disease. It's hard to watch loved ones suffer this way. I know you don't want her to go...but I hope she'll soon find peace. This is no way for her to live;-(
Oh, what a treat! I clicked on the little red X's that were in the corners where the photos should be and suddenly they appeared! Your photos are gorgeous and your arrangements are, too! How creative you are;-) It will be interesting to see the multi-colored blossoms in full bloom!
ReplyDeleteRobin, gorgeous!!! I love the tea set-it is a thing of great beauty by it's self. But when you add the peonies it makes a stunning sight.
ReplyDeleteI am guilty of not checking on you and have probably missed some lovely posts. Like you the technocal side of blogger is beyond me.
You are in my thoughts during this difficult time. It is not easy to lose someone, but as Jan said, she will find peace.
I wish you were coming too. It would be great fun to meet you. Maybe one day soon. :)
Robin, thanks so much for the peony pictures. They were one of my Grandmothers favorite flowers. I really miss her and you just made me remember some special moments with her! I'm so sorry to hear about your mother-in-law.
ReplyDeleteRobin,
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry about your mother-in-law, but I'm happy you can surround yourself with such beauty. Your tea set and your peonies are amazing. Thank you for sharing them.
You deserve some beauty around you right now. Take a deep breath, your flower arrangement is so nice.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad your beautiful peonies can bring you some joy right now Robin. The tea set is the perfect photo prop.
ReplyDeleteMy new friend Cindy sent me your blog address. You have absolutely beautiful pictures. Just love all your flowers.
ReplyDeleteLet me add my sentiments about your mother-in-law. Hard to watch. Been there.
Look forward to seeing more pictures.
Robin, I am glad your garden and beautiful flowers are giving you a lift during these difficult times. Keep taking care of yourself....gail
ReplyDeleteBeautiful flowers - ours are still in bud. Don't they add some measure of comfort and peace? Thinking of you - we have loved ones with the same.
ReplyDeleteHaving just "stumbled on your blog,I will try to catch up with your latest postings one day soon. Meanwhile, while scrolling back (to February) I found your post on Edith Schaeffer and Gardening. I linked it to my site (lifeandgodliness-rebecca.blogspot.com). Edith Schaeffer is on my short list of gracious women. I have already feature Anne Ortlund and Elizabeth Elliot....Edith is next :)
ReplyDeleteIf you have a problem with my linking to your blog, let me know ASAP. Thanks.
I know what you are going through with your Mom-in-law. My Mom had that horrid disease for 10 yrs. I wish you and your family the strength to deal with this.
ReplyDeleteI think that anything of beauty (the peonies for example) can bring us joy and a little peace during trying times. Beautiful pictures.