Saturday, August 24th would have been my mother’s 70th birthday. And, as you know, you have to make a big deal out of the birthdays ending with 0.
We chose several of her favorite things: a tea party, a fancy cake (not chocolate), a hike to Cecret Lake, story telling and a new bunny.
Why a new bunny? Because she (just found out she’s a he) seems lonely.
And because visiting the bunny farm makes our hearts sing. We drive through a canopy of sun speckled leaves until the mansion comes into view. Peacocks strut across the lawn, hundred of birds flit from tree to tree and the barn was plucked straight out of a fairy tale.
Llamas, goats and miniature horses are penned in back while pigeons, doves and canaries spin and twirl. Hundreds, hundreds of adorable bunnies scamper through their pen.
We found this magical place when they placed an ad selling baby bunnies in the classifieds– I’m not going to tell you his name or address but we call him the billionaire bunny man.
This little sweetie seemed perfect to take home.
And we left Xander there to train the baby horse (not kidding).
Just as we were getting in the car to drive to Cecret Lake, the sky cracked open in a wild and beautiful thunderstorm.
Leaving us no choice but to jump and splash and play.
Showered and jammied, a silly fairy helped me set the table.
My mother loved beautiful plates and miniature forks, laughter and spontaneity, practical jokes and delightful surprises (like an awesome summer storm).
And I know she sat at the table with us, giggling at Mary’s antics and egging Ben on (as if Ben needs any encouragement). She’s always with us.
“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” — Pericles
Lisa
Oh my goodness I felt like I was at the party with your mom and your bunnies and your whole bunch! Truly beautiful my friend!
jen
I love your family. Will you adopt me?
Alisa Hamblin
Michelle,
I recently saw a picture of your family with Melissa and Randall Bradford. It inspired me to send you a note. We became friends with the Bradfords in Paris while we were living there on a work assignment. We currently live in Toronto on another work assignment. Your recent post about your mother is beautiful! Your mother and father were always generous with their love and goodness to me. I adored them and will always remember your family. I’m sorry to learn of your mother’s illness and passing. She was a remarkable lady. She was definitely joining your family in her birthday celebration. Please say hello to your Dad and to Mike from me. Your family is gorgeous!
Love Xoxo
Alisa (Christensen)
Kit Linkous
Happy birthday to the dear woman who gave me one of my truest friends!!! Those rain storm pictures remind me of so many wonderful Texas downpours :). Love you
ellen
I’m sure your mom was smiling all day.
Cath
You. Your life. The way you remembered your mother and what she loves. All of it is a sweet tribute to her. No doubt she was celebrating with you! Love you.
Claudia
Happy Birthday beautiful Zoe!