Sunday, August 29, 2010

I must write today of blessings...


Today I feel like writing....
Writing about the blessings in my life and the gratitude that I feel in my heart.
   
The other day I was speaking with a friend in town, and she was asking me about life with Landon (my son with Angelman Syndrome) and the care that he requires daily. She was wondering things like how long it takes to feed him and get him ready for the day and other personal care issues.  She wanted to know how much he understands, and does he let me know when he needs something? (Landon has no speech and is severely mentally impaired, as most of you know already) She also wanted to know if Landon expresses love and how he expresses it, if able.
This always makes me stop and reflect about this life...
this life I have with my son...
this great blessing...

And today I need to write it.
I needed to write it down.
I needed to be grateful again for this gift I've been given.

When I think back to the time when I was trying to accept this gift (and not doing well at it) the grieving process can be hard...very, very hard)) I remember the days and weeks and months, and yes, even years,
that I lived with the color drained from my life. I was consumed by grief for a time. 
I dwelled on the 'will nots'
 the 'he will never run and play...s', the 'he will never get married and have a family...s'. 
All the things that moms and dads think when they get the news that their child is not like 'other children'

I was able to seek help... and I prayed A LOT!!!

Soon the color started coming back into my life. And this was literal. I had been living life in what seemed to be black and white (more like grey really). It was amazing to me how things took on color and brilliance again. Something that had been missing for a time. Then I started noticing that I smiled more and could actually feel joy again over the smallest things.
Over time I was able to see the blessing...the enormous blessing that I had been given. This child, this very amazing child...who, at almost twenty-four, needs to be fed his food, and have his teeth brushed and his baths and all the other things done for him that I took for granted with my other five children before him.
That by doing these things for him daily,
 that it really is a gift.
That it really is the greatest blessing that I have been given in life.
I don't take things for granted as much as I used to.
 I appreciate more, I love more, and I feel more, than I ever did before.

And yes, I told my friend...
he does express his love for me...
in his eyes,
in his smile,
and in his hugs.
These are my greatest blessings.

and I needed to write them today.

***

Because of the gift of Landon in my life, I have the opportunity to stay at home and have the time to also plant and care for this garden that brings Landon and the rest of my family joy.
And for this, I am thankful.
I wanted to share the hollyhocks that grow out by the pasture fence.












Thank you to all who visit here.
I want you to know I appreciate it all so much.

119 comments:

Celestial Charms said...

Dearest June,
Such a touching post filled with truth. Not only is your son the biggest blessing to you, but to your entire family as well. :) I'm so happy that you do share your lovely flowers with us, as they are a form of comfort to me. We have a very large yard, but a green thumb I do not possess. My love of flowers is immense, so I especially enjoy seeing your lovely photographed ones. Have a blessed day.
Maureen

Polly said...

June, getting to know you through this blog has been a blessing to me! You are an amazing lady who is full of loving inspiration. The words and thoughts from this post touched my heart in ways you will never know! Thank you....this put some things into perspective for me.

You are a dear soul.

Hugs,

Polly

Susan McShannon-Monteith said...

Those that have wondered why their child was chosen to not have been blessed with the ability to run, play, talk or even exchange love could learn much by the honest and endearing words you dedicate to your son.
He is special, there in no doubt of that but his Mother is as well, for there is no greater gift than our children, to except them as they are and love them all the more for it.
Susan x

Dru Ann @ a Fine Farmhouse said...

June,
YOU are a such a blessing. I have no words , really. I'm so very touched by you. And, as the above post....Your words today have put things into perspective for me. Thank You.... I truly feel that you are an angel.

Connie said...

That is a sweet, SWEET post, honey. We believe that those children come to us who can indeed handle them. They were chosen to come to families who could give them much love and things they needed to get them through this mortal existence and in the next world they will be as "normal" as anyone. They are kind and loving spirit children of our Heavenly Father who are perfect in this life. You are truly blessed to have him come to your family and he is indeed blessed to have you as his mortal family, too, sugar.
xoxo,
Connie

Heather ~Pretty Petals said...

What a beautiful post of love for your sweet son... it was so touching to me...

Hugs to you... xoxo

Jane said...

Thank you June for a beautiful post. I really needed this. As my husband's disease continues to progress he is no longer able to do the "simple" things that we all take for granted. At times I find myself getting stressed out over "getting this" and "doing that". Thank you for putting some perspective into the challenges we all face in one way or another and for making me stop and think about the blessing that I have in front of me.
God bless you and your son.
Jane

Terra said...

First of all, your hollyhocks are bursting with pinkness; they are gorgeous. And how sweet to read that your life is back in full color now, from the dreary gray it was. Thank you for sharing this with us.

Anonymous said...

Hi June, You are such a wonderful lady. I'm so happy to know you. You are blessed with so much love for your sweet son....Kathy

Miss Gracie's House said...

JOY does come in the morning..thank you so much for reminding us!
Rene

Claudia said...

Thank you, dear June, for the grace of your being. You are a dear, wonderful woman who has been blessed with an angel of a son. That you can see that and know that deep in your heart is truly wondrous. You teach us all grace and I thank you for the gift of your friendship.

xo
Claudia

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

You are blessed. I am sure your angel son shows much love, maybe even more than others....in his own precious way.

The French Bear said...

June, how sweet your post is, so touching to my heart....it is hard to think of how tough someone else's journey is unless we walk in the same shoes.
Your post has given another insight into the beauty and the love in your heart and I know that God has given you your son for a reason, only He knows.......your loving hands that take care of Landon and tend your flower gardens are a perfect example of the genuine person you are!!
I love to come here and be inspired and to see gorgeous flowers and what ever else your hands have created!!! I am grateful for you.....
Hugs,
Margaret B

Julie Marie said...

Oh June, you truly have been blessed with a most beautiful gift, and now you have shared that gift with all of us... and I feel blessed as well... love to you and your sweet Landon... xoxo Julie Marie Your Hollyhocks are so pretty... as always, they remind me of my great~grandmother...

Anonymous said...

How beautiful June, truly. Thanks for sharing your thoughts today, you are a blessing yourself to so many. And oh my, I need to get me some holly hocks!

xoxo
Laura

Deb said...

Such a beautiful post June ~ your nurturing kindness shows in your wonderful family and lovely gardens ♥

Unknown said...

what a touching post my friend. brought tears to my eyes. you are a wonderuflly-loving, caring mom and he is surely a blessing in your lives. You made me stop and thank god for my own blessings. thank you for sharing. your words went straight to the heart!

Unknown said...

what a wonderrful mother you are!! You bring tears to my eyes the love you have for all your children and for life. You are such a gift to so many!

your hollyhocks are so beautiful!!! I love when you share pics from your garden!

Blondie's Journal said...

This is written so beautifully, June, you truly expressed your feelings well and put it all into perspective for me. I know that your days must be difficult but you have managed to find the beauty and love in all that you do for and with Landon. This really makes me smile. Bless you both!

xoxo
Jane

Reading Tea Leaves said...

Dearest June

You speak so eloquently and with the utmost joy when you speak of your sweet son Landon. Your nurturing and caring qualities are limitless - as shown in the love for your family, your warm and happy home and the beautiful garden that you tend. A touching and inspiring post dear friend.

Jeanne
xox

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Dearest June, this was a magnificent expression of your heart. This is what life is about; not the "things" or the "good" feelings that quite frankly, pass, but life is about the lessons learned, and I think it is a rehearsal for the finale in eternity when all will be complete, and you know, that includes bodies made whole, minds made clear, hearts changed forever. How fortunate those of us are that have learned a lesson through pain...your flowers are just gorgeous here and thank you for this wonderful message of the soul. Fondly, Anita

joanne said...

I love getting to know another side of you, the June that speaks from her heart about her greatest gift. I have often struggled with coming to terms with acceptance. You have traveled a journey that many of us would never understand yet you are generous of spirit and most kind of heart. You have done a wonderful thing and as much as you feel Landon is a blessing in your life, I am sure he knows what a blessing his mama is.

June, my heart is so full right now and I could go on and on...thank you for putting a smile in my soul today, for sharing your story...it makes me love you even more!

Caroline said...

Inspirational and honest. Thats why I love coming to visit your blog. I wish everyone could have the opportunity to meet and get to know a Landon just once in their lifetime. I know this world would be a much kinder place. I love the Landon's that I get to work with everyday...their smiles and hugs that I receive are what its all about. Don't we all know that actions speak louder than words! Have a great week and give Landon a hug from all of us!

www.MaisonStGermain.com said...

YOU are a blessing, June. God trusted you with such a special gift and I know you are proving him right:)He always seems to know what we need in our lifes even if we don't. I'll bet those smiles and hugs make you happy every day. I wish you lots and lots of them. Have a wonderful week and give Landon an extra hug from me, please.
~Debra
Blog: Capers of the vintage vixens
~Debra

Debra@CommonGround said...

June, you are a blessing to all of us, and an example of what pure love is all about. Seeing your garden is a gift to all of us, so glad knowing how much joy it brings every person in your family!
I always love coming here. Your attitude is contagious.
hugs and blessings,
Debra

chateau de fleurs said...

Dear June, thank you for sharing your beautiful heart and your amazing flowers, I am truly blessed by both! XO, Christie

Victorian1885 said...

Hello June
Thank you for sharing your son Landon with all of us. He is a very lucky man to have such a loving caring Mother & Family to keep him safe. Take care my sweet friend..hugs to you & Landon!

Wanda

sweetpea said...

Dearest June, I am typing this with moist eyes. In this world there are so few who would embrace the challenge and blessing you were given. I applaud you and am in awe of you. Though it took some time for you to feel the joy of this blessing, God knew that you were strong and would come to that place. You are an amazing woman and I am so happy to know you through blogging. I would love to meet you in person some day, maybe Texas?

Your beautiful gardens and Landon are so lovingly tended by you...

Hugs,

Shelley

Junebug said...

June - Thank you for giving me a lesson in blessings. Sometimes I let life pass by so fast that I forget to be thankful. Your son is a special gift from God. Reading your words I feel the love and joy you have for him and your entire family. Thank you, thank you for for sharing. May God Bless, Junebug

The Green Pea said...

Dear June, it is a blessing to know you. You are a blessing to me. Thank you for sharing the post with us. You are a wonderful lady, mother and wife and friend. Your garden is so beautiful and you are an inspiration to me. My God Bless you and your family always. Hugs, sandi

LiLi M. said...

Sweet June, I was in tears when I read your post. You know the exact words to tell people how it is to have an experience that goes beyond imagination. People always tend to think that happiness can be obtained by having everything you dream of, but never expect that happiness is in the unexpected, there were you cross boundaries and experience something else, something you never dreamt of. At those moments you learn the most and at those moments you get to know what really makes you happy and what you appreciate most in life.
Thanks so much for this beautiful post and give Landon a hug from me for being Landon.

oldgreymare said...

"When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place."
C.S. Lewis

Few people find the power of grace you have achieved, and find it you have...with acceptance, dignity and love.

The prayers rise up, the blessings rain down......

xxxxx

z

awal.ny said...

Thank you for sharing your feelings with us, we who can not fully comprehend how affected your life was and still is. I receintly made a friend whom has a son with severe cerebral palsy and he needs the same kind of care as your son. The first thing that hit me when she spoke of her son was happiness and joy. When you listen to her and her husband talk about their son, you have this overwhelming feeling that it is they who are lucky to have their son in their lives and not the other way around. That is how it makes me feel when I read anything you write about your son. I am happy you have found your peace and are able to enjoy life, your gardens show your happiness too. I never get tired of looking at the wonderful pictures of your flowers. I hope you have been having a lovely summer.

Jacqui said...

Such a beautiful post, I am filled with humility.

karen said...

Thank you for your gratitude list. I too am grateful, however I still see much in black and white. I posted today about sadness. It was uplifting to read your blog and see grace.
xoxo
karen
http://weirdbirdstudio.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful tribute, June, about the love you have for your son and the love and joy he has brought into your life.
Your hollyhocks are beautiful... I can see why your garden would bring you, your son, and the rest of your family so much joy.
Big hugs,
Jo :)

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

June,
Thank you for sharing your heart with us today. Your post gave me a blessing as well. You have reminded me there are many Mothers who face challenges each day when caring for children with special needs. You are so special June and I feel honored to know you.

hugs
Sissie

Julie@beingRUBY said...

Dear June
This heartfelt post reminds me of spring.. spring that is slowly returning here.. and filling our spirits with joy and enthusiasm.... I'll be thinking of you each time I see a new bud or flower burst forth.... and each time I see a butterfly I will think of Landon...Visiting your blog is always a pleasure and bright moment in my day... Have a wonderful week my friend ... You certainly put colour in our lives.. xxxx Julie

Lenore said...

Oh, my goodness, June, your hollyhocks are beautiful but not nearly as beautiful as the sentiments that you expressed for your son! I hope and pray that I could be so happy and grateful as you should anything this difficult happen in my life.
You are truly an inspiration to all of us.
God bless you and your family.

Diane said...

I'm so glad you shared about your life with Landon. It allows us to see what a truly remarkable woman you are and what an amazing family you have. And thanks for talking about how it was before, we need to know those things, it helps us all. You're a blessing to us June. Very, very lovely post AND beautiful hollyhocks. Diane

Laura said...

Dearest June-
What a blessing YOU are to all of us- to me.
Thank you for sharing this.
I feel honored and humbled reading it.

Your God given gift in having the hands that can create a garden such as yours- that your son and family members can enjoy- is a special gift.

No, really.
I don't know of another person who creates like you do.
God gives it ALL back.

Laura

maría cecilia said...

Your darling Landon has brought you many gifts my dear June, as to taking care of him as well as your so beautiful garden, expressing your inmense LOVE through what you have taught to Landon and through what you create in your garden, the most wonderful flowers ever!!!!!
Much love and blessings to Landon.
maria cecilia

maría cecilia said...

Your darling Landon has brought you many gifts my dear June, as to taking care of him as well as your so beautiful garden, expressing your inmense LOVE through what you have taught to Landon and through what you create in your garden, the most wonderful flowers ever!!!!!
Much love and blessings to Landon.
maria cecilia

A Fanciful Life said...

Hello June,
What a most inspiring post you have created today. As you may know, my developmentally challenged sister lives with me, and my 80 year old mom is slowing down. Your post has reminded me that I must have patience. It's not always easy. You have created a wonderful life for you, your family and Landon. How lucky you are. Thank you so much for this post.
Hugs,
Sharon :-)

Patina said...

What a wonderful tribute to Landon. I can only imagine how difficult things were emotionally for you when you first found out. What a shining example of God in your life June. You are such a blessing to those around you and to myself.
Biggest Hugs!
Debbie

P.S. Your Hollyhocks are BEAUTIFUL!

Pondside said...

Thank you, June, for sharing your blessing with us. Your son, your garden, your life at home, the grace with which you approach everything, including blogging - I'll bet it touches each of us in a different way.

Anne Lorys said...

You are simply amazing.
And you make me feel so ashamed of myself, for whining about my relatively minor inconveniences, how can I not see and recognize my own blessings?

God bless you and Landon, dear sweet June, now and always!

Love,
Anne

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Dearest June, Thank you for your visit and kind words. I am blessed to know YOU and witness your mind and heart. Have a VERY SPECIAL day today; and have a wonderful week. My students come back to school next week, so starting today, I have meetings and teachers' inservices to attend! What a wonderful summer, and I hope that yours was unforgettable; I am sure it was, because you probably made it A BEAUTIFUL ONE! Bisous, Anita

Scented Sweetpeas said...

What a lovely post, I never knew about your lovely son as i never read back in your blog archive. The eyes are the key to our soul and i am sure he has a very sweet soul indeed :-)

highheeledlife said...

I have just come across your blog .. and am most grateful that I stopped for a visit. Your words for the gift you have been given ~ truly touched my heart.

I am a "Mircale" - or so the doctors who saved my life refer to me as such. I'm still adjusting to the "Gift" of this life I have been - as it is much different from the lifeI had known. But reading your words ~ really made me stop and think ... how much I do have to be grateful for in this "new" life. Thank you.

I'm your newest follower. Hugs..HHL

attitudeIVlife.blogspot.com

Robin Thomas said...

As the sibling of a profoundly disabled brother, I observed much of what you describe here. Tomorrow I seek guardianship of my brother since my mother is with Hospice. I so needed this at this very serious time.

Anonymous said...

When I stopped thinking of how things should/ought to be, and how they really are - like you - that's when I discovered the joy and blessings in my life.

I am so happy that you have your color and smiles and joy back - and your sweet Landon to love and hug. :)

Peonies & Magnolias said...

I love your post and you are an inspiration to us all. I also love viewing your garden, gorgeous as always. Have a wonderful week.

Sandy

Ann Marie said...

I am grateful for this post today.
I have always wanted to know about Landon. I am not familiar with his syndrome.. and I have been curious to how he was... but didn't want to ask.

What a valient woman you must be to be given such a child! I know/think you are great through blogging... but now I have a whole new love and admiration for you!

I'm sure God blesses you with the "things" of your desire because of the great sacrifice you make daily to care for your son.. and be home with him.

I have a great love for Special needs children.. and I believe that they are very special spirits.

I ADORE your Holly Hocks.. but I adore you and your friendship more!

The Feathered Nest said...

Dear sweet June, what a beautiful post about your precious boy... Your spirit and attitude is so beautiful to me and is absolutely infectious ~ you can just feel the love when visiting your blog....you bless so many dear friend, thank you for that ~ may all the blessings be returned to you as well, hugs and love, Dawn

My name is Riet said...

My dear friend June. I have said it before, you are the most beautiful mother. I love this post about your beautiful gift in your son. I am happy and honoured to be your friend.
Sorry I am late in commenting , I hope you still read it,but I have a great reason. We have sold our home a few days ago and need to move in three weeks. We are so happy to have sold it as the housing market is slow in this country as it is in yours. I will be posting now and then I hope.
Thank you for telling us your story my friend.
Riet

Barbara said...

I am so moved by this post, June! You are such a lovely person, inside and out and both you and Landon are blessed to have each other!

Carolyn said...

Hi June,
Thank you for sharing some of your journey with Landon with us.Not only have you been blessed but you bless us with your loving heart! You have created so much beauty all around you.
I love your previous post on your sweet granddaughter's tea too.

Keep up the good work!

Carolyn

Sharing with Sherri said...

I can't begin to tell how much this post has moved me... I had no idea what the extent of your sons limitations were, and how those challenges must effect you.

I'm going to tell another dear friend of mine who has with a child with Downs Syndrome, about your post I think she will find it very uplifting.

You, sweet lady and your precious Landon are sooo lucky to have each other! Big hugs to you both!

Love, Sherri:)

Kim-Fille de Fleur said...

June, I miss you so much, I am glad I stopped by today to hear your wonderful words speaking to me about how God turns our mourning into joy and lifts us up beyond tragedy. I love seeing your life in all its splendid color. I know that Landon was given to you because you are the perfect mother for him! How I long to sit in your garden and see you and Landon with your heads bent over one of your precious flowers. Wow I am tearing up! I am so glad you are here thanks for letting us into your world!
Kim

Trisha said...

I truly admire you for so many different reasons-I can tell that you are a spectacular mother and friend to Landon! You are both lucky to have each other! Thank you for the reminder to be thankful for all that is in our lives!

~Trisha

Holly Loves Art said...

I enjoyed your beautiful heartfelt post today June. Thank you for sharing. You are a great reminder to all of us to remember to be grateful and thankful for life's blessings.

Your hollyhocks are gorgeous!
Big hugs,
Holly

Angela said...

Wow June - what an inspiring and beautiful post. What a wonderful mom you are.
May we all gleen from your faith, wisdom, testimony and love.
It is always a blessing for me to visit your blog and I look forward to your posts.
May God continue to bless you and your family and you! Lots of hugs, Angela

Draffin Bears said...

Dear June,

I was touched by your tender and beautiful post.
Thank you for sharing and you are truly an inspiration and wonderful Mother with all you do and how much love you have to give.
Blessing to you, Landon and all your family. The holly hocks are gorgeous and can see from all the flowers you have in your garden, how much time and love you spend in it.

Have a happy week
Hugs
Carolyn

Georgianna said...

Dear June, Thank you for your generosity of compassion and tenderness in sharing these words. I can already tell that you yourself are a great gift to all who know you and that Landon is as blessed as you are. The hollyhocks are a wonderful and beautiful touch. hugs. xo – g

Rostrose said...

Dearest June,
I always love to read your lines, but most of all I love when you are writing about your angel-son (I always want to write "sun" instead of "son", maybe that's what he really is!) There are not so many people in the world who are able to take this kind of "heavy gift" really as a gift... because they only feel the difference, see the "defect" and are not able to eye the other side... It's clear to me that there is a long process necessary for a mother ... to accept ... to become grateful ... but you did it. And to read about this "arrival" is so wonderful and touching for me (and for everyone else who reads your blog, I think)...
Sweetheart, and I also visited your former post with your lovely grand-daughters - this pictures are so romantic and pretty! Yes, you really are a blessed woman!
Warm hugs to you, June,
yours Traude

Zita - Mlle Magpie said...

So beautiful, June. You and your garden are such wonderful blessings - thank you for always sharing. p.s. your pink hollyhocks are incredible (unfortunately I could not garden this year due to my illness so my cutting garden at the farmhouse was a bust, but some of the cosmos, sweet peas and deep purple/black poppies (thought of yours when I saw them) that husband planted, did come up amongst the weeds :)

Robin said...

Dearest June, You are an angel on earth! How lucky Landon is to have you for a mother! Thank you for sharing what is in your heart! You have touched me in a profound way! Much love and admiration, ~Robin~

Sandy~Romantique Inspirations~ said...

You are an amazing Women June with the heartache you have gone through at the beginning, but to realize through time past the blessing you do have with Landon and through him God has healed your heart and open up your eyes to even better things of what life had to offer. I give God the glory by giving you the strength to do what you do because caring for someone does take a lot of work, mentally, physically and of course the love you pour onto him and with him giving it back means everything in the world to you. Landon knows you love him and that is what is so important. I'm glad he has you because you are a very special person in so many ways and it shows on your blog the gratitude you have for others as well. I'm going to lift you up in prayer girl.

Sending Big Tight Hugs*

Marie Arden said...

Lovely and thought provolking. I love the double hollyhocks. I have some here in Georgia but they are not doing too well-not enough sun. I should move them.

Marie Arden said...

Lovely and thought provolking. I love the double hollyhocks. I have some here in Georgia but they are not doing too well-not enough sun. I should move them.

Brenda Pruitt said...

Love the words. So inspiring. The hollyhocks are gorgeous.
Brenda

paperbird said...

What a beautiful heartfelt post June. Your sweet and tender thoughts touched my spirit. I am so happy that your life is filled with color and beauty again. Thank you for sharing the beauty with us.

Terri said...

Your post is filled with love and gratitude. I know it is not always easy to count everything as a blessings. And I also know that being able to do so brightens my view immensely. Thank you for the reminder. It is a very precious reminder.

Your photos are so gorgeous. I have been looking through your blog and I am amazed at the clarity and color of your photos. How do you do it?!

Thank you so much for sharing with us.
Hugs to you,
Terri

MJ Ornaments said...

Oh June, I loved your post. What an amazing experience to be brought to a time in life where you see color again, and can truly laugh. After the recent loss of my mom, I'm going through the grieving process too, which feels like it will never end. Thanks for sharing this, it gives me hope that it will end someday.
Take care,
Martha
p.s. love your hollyhocks! bet i can't grow them here-
drats!

jade said...

Oh June, when i read your loving words, i have tears in my eyes - i would love to describe my feelings, but my English is not good enough........so i send big, big Hugs to you and your wonderful Landon!!!!!!!!!!

With LOVE, Jade

Anonymous said...

June Sweetheart..... You are a woman to be looked up to & admired!!
Love Ya',
Marilyn

Anne Marie said...

he's an angel because God has given him you dear June....your qualities and the beautiful way you view your life are very inspiring - that was the most beautiful post....

what a treasure you are here on blogland.

xo+blessings,
Anne Marie

Http://whatmeeganmakes.com said...

I read your post yesterday, and found myself thinking about it as I fell asleep last night. I was praying for you and your family. I was thinking about the attitude you exibit on your blog, and how you infuence so many people for good. You bring happiness to so many. You are an angel.
Thanks for sharing your inner most thoughts with us. Your thoughts of seeing black and white, then in color-perfect description!
Bless your heart. Thank you for reminding all of us the blessings and angels in our lives!

Privet and Holly said...

I have tears in my
eyes as I type. You
are so inspiring to me,
June! Your words went
straight from your
heart and right into
mine. I do believe we
choose to be happy, no
matter the circumstances,
but that is a philosophy
I wasn't born with;
it comes with age and
wisdom. I'm so glad that
the color came back to
your life and that your
son's life has meaning
and purpose ~ for both
of you. Love you loads
today.
xx Suzanne

Tammy@T's Daily Treasures said...

Dear June, you are truly an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your story and your heart with us. We all need to remember to be grateful for all experiences that come our way as they make us stronger. Each day is a gift and each moment in service to someone else is a true blessing. Those years that you lived in gray have now blossomed into a rainbow of colors in your beautiful garden. Sending hugs and love your way. Tammy

Rose Garden Romantic said...

Hi June! What a sweet post this is... full of truth and reality and love. Thank you for the reminder that blessings come in all shapes and sizes, in ways we would never expect.
Hugs,
Michelle

Grandma Yellow Hair said...

June
This post was what I needed to read today and I can not tell you how much your words touched me.
I think of you and your family often and pray for you.
You remind me so much of my Aunt Opal. She too cared for two daughters like you care for sweet Landon and she was such an inspiration to all that knew her. Just as you are honey.
I look up to you and admire you.
Love
Maggie

Grandma Yellow Hair said...

June
This post was what I needed to read today and I can not tell you how much your words touched me.
I think of you and your family often and pray for you.
You remind me so much of my Aunt Opal. She too cared for two daughters like you care for sweet Landon and she was such an inspiration to all that knew her. Just as you are honey.
I look up to you and admire you.
Love
Maggie

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful post June from a beautiful heart. Such a blessing knowing you sweet friend.

bee blessed
mary

Unknown said...

My sweet friend ~ June, I've told you before, I say it again ...

God only chooses those that He knows can handle the needs of these precious children gifts from above. You are a blessed husband & wife, Landon is specially blessed to have been chosen for you to love. God gives us blessings that sometimes takes time for us to realize.

Every time I think about you, you bring a big smile ... my eyes tear up with knowing how beautiful your soul.

Love you, my precious friend.
TTFN ~ Hugs of love, Marydon

PS I love your hollyhocks, we used to grow them by Mother's garage as children.

Carole said...

This is why we love you June....you wear your heart on your sleeve. Not many would have your strength,grace or love to see the best in a situation. I know years ago it never seemed possible to get out of the gray days but now like the small seedling that with time grows into a beautiful flower you have come into your own.
Such a touching post and I'm glad you wanted to share it with us.....
I cried the whole way through

....but happy tears!!!

Hugs,
Carole

Anonymous said...

It is very interesting for me to read that blog. Thanks for it. I like such topics and everything that is connected to this matter. I would like to read a bit more on that blog soon.

Anete Smith

koralee said...

Thank you for this today my sweet friend...your words touched my heart. xoxoxo

victorian parlor II said...

June,

What a beautiful post! I work with special needs children and appreciate the beauty they bring to life. I often wonder someday when we all get to Heaven if we will discover that we are the special needs people and those we view as special needs are the actual 'normal' people. I truly believe that God gives the most special parents the most special children:).

Blessings,

Kim

saltbox
treasures
said...

Hi. Thanks for visiting and leaving a comment. You are an inspiration. Wishing you an especially blessed day.
~ Julie

Suzanne said...

Without experiencing sorrow, we can't truly appreciate joy, and without experiencing struggle we can't really appreciate our blessings. Learning this has been a continuous growth experience for me!
You are a good mamma, June. Thank you for sharing a little of your "blessings" journey with Landon with us.

wendy said...

That was a very humbling post...thankyou.

Vicki said...

Hi, June,
This beautiful post was a blessing to me today. Thank you for sharing. Those hollyhocks are making me smile, and I loved seeing the tea party with your sweet and beautiful granddaughters. Aren't our children and grandchildren such a blessing from God? Happy September to you, dear friend~love always~Vicki

Julia @ Vintage with Laces said...

Landon couldn't have asked for a better Mom, dear June! He is your angel and you are the angel in his life!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Big hugs,
Julia

Rita said...

Dear June,
what a touching wonderful post...
you are such a special soul and so is your angel son.
Reading your post has reminded me that we should count our blessings more often and try and see life in color rather than only in black and white, even when life brings us times of challange, hardships and sorrow.
With much love
Rita

Leslie said...

June,

What a lovely, thoughtful, touching post.

I so much enjoyed finally meeting you today at Rebecca's antiques show (one of the best events of the year!). You are as adorable and charming as your beautiful blog. I'm thrilled you will be published in "Where Women Create"...how EXCITING is that?! Congratulations.

I'll look forward to connecting in the future.

Fondly,
Leslie

cindy-stitches-n-stuff.blogspot.com said...

Hi my sweet friend. You are an example to me. I do know, with all me heart, that we love the ones we serve.

I'm glad you've had a nice summer.

big hugs
cindy@stitches

Tammy said...

What a lovely post.....you are yourself a blessing to us all.

Rosie said...

Oh my Darling,
Your Hollyhock are beautiful...but do not hold a candle to you, my dear friend.
The strength He imparts is not only a blessing to the one who receives it, but also to those who look on...What a beautiful Christlike picture you have painted...it makes me love you even more...sending a tender hug...love Rosie

Jodie (everything vintage) said...

Good Morning June!
And I say that with every sense of the word as every time I come into your world, it's always a good morning! :)

I've missed the last three posts of yours as I have been on the road having fun.

Although you see, I've been with you here all along and you didn't know it.

You see, I come here and visit but I never really leave.
I get lost in your beautiful garden, exploring each and every bloom that came from your hands.

You didn't see me but I shared in the joy of having your "little" girls enjoy their "tea". I could feel your sense of awe as you shared these wonderful memories of a lifetime with them.

Then, there's Landon. God knew what he was doing when he gave Landon to you. No other place would be more perfect for him than with you. I so admire you June. For who you are and all what you do.
I must say this with all my heart...
For someone that had once found it hard to see the color in life, you have sure brought color, love, inspiration and friendship in mine (& I'm sure I can speak for anyone who has ever come in contact with you!)

So to remind you again...I'll never leave from here.
I mean really now, who in their right mind would want to leave such a beautiful place???
:)
Love you June~

Jeanne Oliver said...

This was truly beautiful!

savvycityfarmer said...

your blessed life is very contagious ...
thank you for opening up your soul ...

savvycityfarmer said...

your blessed life is very contagious ...
thank you for opening up your soul ...

LemonyRenee' said...

This is beautiful, June. I knew it would be. I could tell by the title, and I waited to read it for a while. I am in a very different place right now, as you know, but your heart shines to me like a beacon through a storm. Bless you, sweet friend.

Rosy Inspiration said...

Wow! That is so touching, yes, it was good you wrote it down. Thankfulness is so important. Your hollyhocks are so lovely, I love them.

Rebecca said...

What an inspiration you are-thank you for sharing your blessing with us all!

Lovey said...

My June, I just left you this long message and it was erased when I sent it...seriously.
In my heart I was trying to tell you about the Gifts of Love that surround you and that you are a gift to others. You are surrounded by Beauty and the Love of God daily. You have Eternal Gifts that are manifest in your life in the beauty and colors that you can now see. Gifts of compassion, servitude, humility, love, warmth and long suffering...which is temporal in itself. Weeping may endure for a night but Joy comes in the morning. Landon needed you in his life and God entrusted that soul to you. You may have cried and may even cry from time to time because we don't always understand the "Whys" in our lives...but we do understand what love is and as we grow in it we become better Christians, friends, parents and spouses. We just become better people. You are a gift to so many. I can't imagine your struggles, or the tired nights you may have but do know that for your faithfulness in these things there is a Great Reward waiting just for you...You are a Gift, and Landon smiles on the inside when he see his "Mama" and I'm sure on the outside too. But what you can't see are all the Heavenly Hosts smiling at You! You are a Gift to so many and that Gift is Eternal. I love you My June...Lovey

Sixty-Fifth Avenue said...

June, thank you for sharing with us. This is a post that can give comfort to other families like yours. I too enjoy your beautiful garden, you are an inspiration to me.
Londen
xx

{Bellamere Cottage} said...

My swwwwweeeet Junie...

What a lovely tribute to this special son. It's interesting, isn't it, if we open ourselves up what joy can be in store for us....even if it's not by following the "usual" path. I'm so happy this young man gives you so much joy, I'm sure he feels it and GOD feels it too...

Lovies dear one...
Spencer

Sherry @ No Minimalist Here said...

June, What a beautiful and touching post. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. Landon, and your other children, are blessed to have you as their mom.
Hugs, Sherry

Chrissy...The Apothecary Shop said...

I am so glad I read this beautiful post,your a remarkable woman...and Landon is lucky to have you!

Karen said...

OK, I am about to embarrass myself.
I have never seen a Hollyhock.
Wow!
I think it is right up there with Peonies now - which are my favorite. And I hadn't seen one of those in "real life" until last summer when Trader Joes started selling them in bunches. LOVE at first sight!
Holly hocks. A new favorite.
Landon. He is your little Angel and I think ALL OF US need to count our Blessings ~ over and over~ and remind ourselves and each other what great gifts the Lord has given us in this life.
Big hugs! Karen

Natasha Burns said...

What a beautiful post, June. You have reminded me to count my blessings, and be grateful for what we all have. Even the things we might think are not what we want. You're such a special person, thank you! xo

A Fanciful Life said...

Hello June,
What a truly inspirational post this is and what a special family you have. Landon could not be more lucky to have you in his life. My heart goes out to you.

It's amazing how your magic extends to your garden. It is the most beautiful - I can only say how special you are.

With love,
Sharon

Monica said...

Dear June,
I've been wanting to write to you since you posted this. To be honest, now I am speechless... I'd love to express what I felt reading this post, but I don't find any word to say this touched me greatly, warmed my heart and made me feel even more grateful for what I have! My heart goes to you and to your precious son and your family as well.
Monicax.

Half-heard in the Stillness said...

Hello again June,

I am so thrilled that you left a comment for me, you have so many blogging friends I'm so honoured that you found a moment!

I have a son who is also nearly twenty-four...You are inspiring so many of us across the ether, thank you so much!

I adore the pink Hollyhocks, all your neighbours must be so glad they live in sight of your enchanted garden!

Jane

Dawn said...

Hi June,
What lovely sentiments. Sherri from Sharing with Sherri sent me by after reading an my recent post. I have two teens with developmental disabilities and a husband with cerebral palsy. I'm afraid I'm often too stressed to count my blessings but I'm trying to change that! Your blog is wonderful inspiration.
Hugs,
Dawn

Unknown said...

Hi June,
I'm a follower of Anne's blog Fiona and Twig so that's how I found your blog through hers. Your post is so sweetly touching.Thank you for helping me look at my own life differently.I'm truly touched by your great example.