June 5, 2026
Today reminded me that even in seasons of loss and change, there can still be renewal.
Just a few weeks ago, we began cleaning Mom and Dad’s forgotten screened in porch with a vision of creating a peaceful retreat where they could enjoy the beauty of summer together. Today, that vision has come to life.
One of the highlights of this journey was taking Mom to the garden center to help choose flowers for the space. As she gently touched the velvety petals and admired the vibrant colors, her senses seemed to awaken. She selected begonias, petunias, hydrangeas, and ferns, and we returned home with a colorful collection of blooms that would soon transform the porch into a vibrant oasis.
Throughout the project, Mom had little idea of what was taking shape. From time to time, we invited her to supervise the painting and improvements, and she happily accepted her role as “boss,” giggling and clapping as she watched the progress unfold. Seeing her engaged and curious became one of the greatest rewards of the entire experience.
After eleven days of painting, planting, decorating, and working side by side, we were finally ready for the big reveal. Following lunch, Mom reluctantly agreed to come see what everyone had been working so hard to complete. The moment she stepped into the sunroom, her face lit up with surprise.
She couldn’t believe it was the same space.
For nearly two hours, she sat in the sunshine surrounded by flowers, commenting repeatedly on how beautiful, and peaceful the room felt. She even set aside her favorite robe, soaking in the warmth while enjoying a cold glass of pink lemonade. The sunshine, colors, and fragrances awakened her spirit.
What began as a cleanup project became something much greater—a labor of love shared by family. It became a place where Mom’s senses were stirred, Dad’s vision became reality, and precious memories continue to bloom alongside the flowers. Most importantly, it has become a place where Mom and Dad can sit together, enjoy the warmth of summer, and feel surrounded by love.
As I sat there watching Mom bask in the sunshine, I couldn’t help but feel that this room had become sacred ground. Perhaps one day it may be the place where Mom takes her final breath. And if the time comes when we carry her there for those final moments, she will be surrounded by beauty, peace, family, and love.
Until then, this sunroom will be a place for living—a place where memories are made, senses are awakened, laughter is shared, and quiet moments are treasured. It stands as a reminder that even in life’s most difficult seasons, beauty can still be cultivated, joy can still be found, and love can still create something extraordinary.
