In January, Mum was in planning mode. I guess it was a case of anything and everything to keep her mind busy. Through the fog, caused by the mixed bag of drugs, she poured over these books she loved so much. A Tree In The House by @annabellehickson was one in particular.
If you know our story, you’ll know Mum just wanted a simple box covered in picked lavender and rosemary. We and those attending were under strict orders not to buy flowers, and this book was her companion as she planned what it should look like. I was so happy we, as her children were able to respect her wishes and do that for her.
One of the other books was In good company by Sophie Hansen. Between them, Mum and I talked about how we could have a party in her honour, later, after her small and intimate goodbye. Originally she didn’t care for a party, but as we talked and showed each other the gorgeous table settings, she got more excited. Pointing at the Spiced Cauliflower and Potatoes, she touched her lips with her fingers and made that, “I can taste it now” face.
At the time we couldn’t make the big country party happen, but maybe we can in 2023. In the garden on the Granite Belt, with the food she ticked and the arrangements she marked in the books, we can celebrate her again. Maybe we could keep doing it… “Our dead are never dead to us until we have forgotten them .” – George Eliot.