Last evening I was thinking about what to post as a ‘favourite’ photo when the phone rang. It brought the news that a close friend had died that afternoon.
This morning when thinking of her, I remembered that her favourite tree had been the Tree-fuschia (Halleria lucida), and so in her memory I have chosen photographs of the Halleria lucida for this week’s photo challenge, with the theme ‘Favourites’. These photographs were first featured in a post on naturebackin in June this year.
My friend had been ill for some time. Despite her going annually for a mammogram and check up, her cancer was not detected. Only when she had symptoms from metastasised cancer did she receive a diagnosis. She had so much to live for. A series of treatments not only gave her over two more precious years, but also controlled her symptoms, until eventually the balance tipped too far and the side effects of treatment outweighed the benefits.
As far as possible, she and her partner made the most of the time left. She loved the ocean and beach walks, with their dog running like the wind on the sands. She loved nature, animals, music, books and art, and she was an accomplished sculptor. She had the most refreshingly droll and dry sense of humour, and she was a fantastic friend.
She and her partner were a team, and she was lovingly looked after at home where she died in the room looking out into the garden they had made together.
Even though ill, earlier this year she wrote a post for naturebackin about a woodpecker at her window. You can read it here.
The Halleria lucida is a favourite of mine too. The word lucida, describing a quality of the leaves, means shining or bright.
She too will shine on – in the hearts and memories of those of us who loved her.
At this time of holidays and celebrations, with a new year around the corner, it is fitting to remember and cherish those who are dear to us.
Wishing you all peace and the comfort of love and friendship. May we protect and appreciate each other and the planet that sustains us.
Posted in response to the final Weekly Photo Challenge of 2017: Favourites.
Posted by Carol
December 28, 2017 at 11:24 pm
Lovely tribute Carol. Many warm and happy memories of your shared backgarden experiences will bring comfort.
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January 4, 2018 at 10:00 pm
Thank you Anne.
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December 22, 2017 at 3:18 pm
So sorry Carol😍 but,what a beautiful tribute. Tree fuchia definitely one of my favorites too😊 lots of love Marica
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December 22, 2017 at 7:44 pm
Thank you so much Marica. Glad to know that you like the Tree-fuschia too.
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December 22, 2017 at 2:51 pm
I remember the woodpecker story, and how much I enjoyed it when first I read it. I’m so sorry about the death of your friend: it’s all too easy for me to know how her partner must be feeling now, and all of you who loved her. I hope some of them will see your tribute to her. Your words ensure she lives on in certain ways.
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December 22, 2017 at 7:43 pm
Thanks Margaret. Yes indeed. I know your family have traveled a very sad and difficult path. We will be gathering for my friend’s funeral next week.
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December 23, 2017 at 7:28 am
I hope it’ll be a celebration of her life, which you’ll all be able to remember with some joy.
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December 25, 2017 at 7:16 pm
Thanks Margaret, I hope so too. In the weeks before her death, she played a major role in planning the funeral.
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December 26, 2017 at 8:01 am
Good for her! I hope it goes well,
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December 22, 2017 at 10:39 am
Such a beautiful tribute to your friend, Carol, both in words and pictures. She sounds a wonderful and vibrant person. My condolences to all of you who are mourning her.
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December 22, 2017 at 7:36 pm
Thank you Sandra. The major part of my brain still finds it impossible to comprehend that she has gone.
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December 22, 2017 at 10:17 am
I am so sorry to read this. I send my heartfelt condolences to you and to her partner and family and all who loved her. She will shine on, she will shine in the hearts of those who cared for her. It just takes time for the pain to ebb and to recognise that she is there. Go softly.
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December 22, 2017 at 7:33 pm
Thanks Osyth for your kind and thoughtful words.
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December 22, 2017 at 9:18 am
These flowers are worth seeing again. They are a fitting accolade to your friend.
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December 22, 2017 at 7:32 pm
Thank you Anne. I know she also loved these flowers.
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December 22, 2017 at 5:20 am
A lovely tribute, Carol. Enjoyed the Woodpecker story too.
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December 22, 2017 at 5:50 am
Thank you Nikki and thanks for reading the woodpecker post too.
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December 22, 2017 at 4:35 am
A beautiful tribute to your friend and a wonderful expression on wider thoughts for what to hold dear in friendship and nature.
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December 22, 2017 at 5:20 am
Thank you Liz.
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December 22, 2017 at 12:17 am
Sorry for you loss. This is a beautiful tribute.
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December 22, 2017 at 5:20 am
Thank you Amy.
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December 21, 2017 at 11:10 pm
Sorry for your loss. Those beautiful flowers are a nice memorial.
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December 22, 2017 at 5:19 am
Thank you Graham.
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December 21, 2017 at 10:19 pm
Sorry to read of the loss of your friend, Carol. Your tribute to her is beautiful. Beauty and love are eternal.
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December 21, 2017 at 10:25 pm
Thank so much Eliza.
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December 21, 2017 at 9:10 pm
A lovely tribute to your friend.
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December 21, 2017 at 10:05 pm
Thank you, Belinda.
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