I have been thinking of Joan, my mother-in-law, all week and especially today. Joan and Charles took thousands of photos over the years, and I still have a good number of them. There are some really great color photos that I have been transferring to digital, over the months. A gargantuan project, but wonderful because I see many moments in her life, including friends, groups of people, their home and some of their trips. 

Joan's love of gardening was one thing we shared. She gave me some of the plants that I still have (houseplants). Some of her favorite plants are at our house, indoors and out, and they often make me think of her. At the moment, I am trying to save a few of them from a pest (spider mites?) by smothering the plants in horticultural oil . . . . not sure I am completely accurate in describing this. But I would hate to lose any of these plants. She also asked for, and received, one of the hostas that was on the border of our property. Of course, she only had a very small amount of outdoor space to use once she and Charles moved in to Boston. 

I will try to keep my "slides" project going, and may have some prints (or digital files) that I can give some of you.  I sure wish that I had met her earlier than I did.

Dear Nick, William and your extended family: David and I are so sorry to hear of your loss and share in your sorrow. You captured her life and spirit. I benefitted greatly from your parents generosity over the years. So many special memories come rushing back and please know that I will be forever grateful. I am hoping that family and friends will comfort you, hold you up and that loving memories help you smile again.

Dear Nick, Ben, and Lucy-
Thank you for this lovely tribute to Joan. Your details told me much about her life that I did not know, and your photos demonstrate her warm personality. I am keeping you all in my thoughts.

I'm very sad to hear of Joan's passing. I remember her fondly as my parents, Arthur and Helen Pava were dear friends with both her and Charlie. She was a remarkable woman, and I will think of her fondly as I cook from one of the many recipes she shared with my mother. I can still hear her voice, her laughter, and see her smile. I feel blessed to have known her, and am very grateful for her friendship with my father long after my mother was gone. She was a special friend and a very special person. My condolences to Nick and William and their families.