This small patch of Maiden Pinks always grow on the West side of my woods path that leads to our deer hunting blinds. My son called to let me know he made the eleven hour drive home safely. When we both reflected back on all that has happened since last Monday, we agreed that we journey well together. The evening of the surgery, we stayed up talking until dawn. A shared interest in science, the natural world, and a common sense of (cynical) humor do us well together.
Eric was impressed with my spring landscape design additions and alterations. When we pulled in the drive when returning from Marshfield, he exclaimed, "Christ Dad, you have turned Rauhallinen Farm into some kind of fucking sanctuary!" which in my way of thinking, was a nice compliment. The farm is a sanctuary to me indeed. I visualized it while laying in the hospital bed. Whenever I am not here in body, my soul is in residence. Eric was spot on - it provides me with a haven from stress and in particular, the members of my species that create it. Rauhallinen Farm was once a dream/fantasy for two, and is now a reality for one.