Thankfulness...

How do you thank someone whose presence in your life is invaluable? How do you express in words what true gratefulness feels like? I have tried, and always fall short. My mom's dear friend Annette, is one of those people I am eternally grateful for. She cared for my mom when I could not...she did more than I can ever repay her for, and she did so without ever looking for anything in return...she stayed by my mother's side when I could not be there. She held my mom when she passed, and comforted me, when she herself was grieving. I love Annette. And no words can ever express how grateful I am to her. So, I had to show her with actions.

These special people helped me plan a surprise. They worked in the pouring rain digging trenches, hauling dirt, and working under tight time constraints. You see, Annette and her husband Fred live in California and had a trip planned to Napa Valley last week. I wanted to do something tangible to thank them for all they did for my mother this year. So, while they were away for a few days, their son Freddie and his wife Crystal graciously agreed to be my partners in crime to make this surprise of thankfulness become a reality!

So between e-mails, phone calls, and text messages, we begun, "Operation Island!"

Annette and Fred recently moved into their new home. There is a beautiful circular driveway and a big area ripe for some landscaping.

So, Freddie and I, along with a personal friend of his who happens to do landscape work in the area, came up with a master plan to surprise Annette and Fred with a living memorial island. Annette has lost both of her parents and two friends over the past few years. We wanted to create an area that was pleasing for her to look at, and could eventually grow into a quiet reflection area to remember those she has loved and lost.

Under the cover of a major rain storm, the crew hauled in dirt, boulders, plants and more while Annette and Fred were away.

The sun came out on the last day when the final touches were being added.

And when they arrived home, this lovely dry creek bed with plants and flowers to grow over the years awaited them. Thank you Annette and Fred for everything you have done for our family. No words or actions can ever repay you, but please know how grateful I am. I love you both!