For Sheri

You never know how the smallest word of encouragement may turn someones day or even life in a totally different direction.

I have a blog friend, Sheri, who sent me several messages of encouragement.

There is an area outside my sun room that was recently destroyed by a storm. I had created a beautiful shade garden that was suddenly filled with afternoon sun. All the hard work of planting ferns, hostas and impatiens was ruined overnight. I was despairing about it one morning blog and Sheri responded with an understanding word of encouragement.

Probably without knowing how much her words affected me-I decided to make the most of the hand I'd been dealt. This new outlook spilled over into so many areas of both my garden and my life (much to the despair of my neighbor :) I busted up old stones that lined symmetrical borders. I also built a river bed--mostly dry but able to channel rain (or tears) when needed.

So I've been working hard to make the most of the area that means so much to me. I could ramble for paragraphs about what this experience has taught me...turning shade into sunshine....busting up established borders... But this post is about gratitude.

Right now I just want to dedicate my garden to Sheri.

entry to the garden

new path leading into garden

area outside my serenity room

(shaded now but soon to be filled with sun)

view from my serenity room

Thank You Sheri for being you!!