tomatoes from the heartMom passed away two months ago, on March 17th. Today I received a gift from her – something ordered months ago before we knew cancer would rule the rest of her days.

Shopping was mom’s favorite way to care for those she loved. Unexpected boxes would arrive in the mail. A gadget. A pretty T-shirt. A new whiz-bang floor cleaner. A pair of earrings. A bag of pine nuts she knew I’d love but would never spend the money on. All the lavender in my garden stems from Mom’s gifts.

Today’s precious and unexpected gift is a pack of tomato seedlings ready to plant. They’re a little early for Downeast Maine; we anticipate a frost tonight.

What I wouldn’t give for the opportunity to call her tonight to say, “Thank you, and I love you.”