Monday, July 16, 2012

The temperatures were hot but the visiting guests were COOL!











































Sunday I was overwhelmed by the generous participants who came down to the All Seasons Garden for an old fashioned Iced Tea and Lemonade Cookie Social/Art opening.  The tables were draped in a pale yellow tablecloth and freshly picked and arranged flowers from Dawes.  The refreshments were simply a delight for all of your senses...bright fresh fruits, delicate sweet tea cookies, yogurt dips for dipping and delicious iced teas and lemonades to cool the afternoon heat.  The weather held off; in fact we truly need the rainfall to nourish the dry flowers, trees, farm fields, and I think our entire population could use and enjoy a refreshing downfall.  Luke Messinger the director and Laura Appleman opened the ceremonies with brief but very complimentary words and even though I was glowing...sweating.... the tears filled my eyes and flowed down my cheeks.  I have been so blessed with the generosity of my family down at the Dawes Arboretum.  For over 26 years, this has been my cathedral for mediation and prayer.  1800 acres of pure sacred grounds embrace everyone when they cross over into the arms of a the cooling tree boughs.  Whenever one might have a heaviness in the heart and soul will soon discover that there is a safe, serene place to seek and then find refuge.  I hope you enjoy the photos...every picture tells a story. Imagine and Live in Peace,  Mary Helen Fernandez Stewart

4 comments:

  1. Congratulations. It was a tremendous undertaking with a gorgeous finish. I wanted to come to the opening, but was dealing with my dad, who was just put in the dementia unit at Chapel Grove. Take care.

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    1. Dear Susan, I totally understand because we have Ken's mother is assisted living in Marion, IN ... at least for now. She is a mean dementia patient and the family is struggling to help her in this adjustment. Financially it is a huge commitment for the 9 siblings and there are too many votes to find a mutual agreement. I know we need to sell her house...but I have to be very careful. The opening was hot but a real joy! The children were dancing under their Art and the temperatures were steaming...but I am so grateful the whisper panels survived the latest storms. One came down and was a dirty mess...so I threw it into the washer...and like magic it looks great! You take care too...life is not easy as our parents age. Peace, Mary Helen

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  2. The place is gorgeous, your look so pretty and the fruit salad to die for. Looks like a lovely event. xox

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    1. The day was a real miracle for all involved in this huge installation. The temperatures were high and humid but the iced teas and lemonade were cooling treats. My next question is "What's Next????" as I re-enter my home studio and take time to properly reorganize my supplies...YIKES! this is another big job! Peace, Mary Helen Fernandez Stewart

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