@TauriskThat is beautiful and so very true.
When we bought the farm I was about 45ish, being in the country we had get togethers and met everyone. Our dear friends and neighbours would have an annual party on their farm, to which all of their relatives, dear friends far and near and all neighbours were invited.
One party was an American and they are most hospitable. We would be invited from around 11am until you were fit to drop. The whole day was amazing, kids were taken on tractor and trailer rides to visit the whole farm. Food was constantly being served, we all mucked in, brought a plate and bottles of whatever took your fancy.
During the day, a huge lump of animal was slowly being cooked in a pit, rather like the kiwis did.
We all brought chairs and sat around the beautiful dam. Kids swam in it, lovers crept off. Jokes and stories were exchanged, many got totally legless of course.
Then our American friend would bring ice cream which he made from some convoluted churn.
We met many people from outback stations, who obviously found somewhere to sleep for the night.
Then a massive bonfire was lit, we all had a great day.
But the whole point of this rambling story is that there were many wonderful older people there, we got to know them really well and became firm friends. I remember one gentleman who was in his late 80's he still had a twinkle in his eye and was so happy if someone gave him a peck on the cheek or a cuddle.
Now they are all passed on
...............We are now the old ones, those little kids who ran and danced and played are now forming their own lasting relationships, soon there will be babies.
It does not seem to be very long ago.
Life moves on, death is an inevitable part of our fate. I am not feeling sad about this. It is just the circle of life, which we are lucky to enjoy. So sad that some suffer in the end, one old gentleman, the one with the twinkling eyes, had a heart attack and dropped dead getting out of the shower, it was quick.
His beautiful wife, who taught me so much about gardening in Australia, sadly lingered on, but without complaint. With bowel cancer. I still have some of the lovely plants which she gave me from cuttings.
Now us younger ones have the aches and pains, but still have the memories of many get togethers and great fun evenings and days, even holidaying in France together.
I think I should shut up now, for fear of boring everyone to death lol.
Love you all Jo Jo xx
PS...Yesterday is history
Tomorrow is a mystery
Today is a gift
That's why its called the present.
