jennifer, Author at Hopeful Homemaker

Flag Day!

June 14, 2011 jennifer Flag Day

We made it home in time for Flag Day!   I’m behind on laundry and everything else but the sunshine, gentle breeze, and June 14th on the calendar coaxed me outdoors to put up the flags.   I have loved the American flag all my life.   It seems my affection and respect for it deepens each year.   Yes, today is a special day, a holiday worth celebrating.

This year I added more flag holders on every post on our wrap around porch.

On days like today I sigh inwardly and think to myself, “Yes, this is why we built a white house.”

Much as we need a major clean up day around here, today has been more of an emotional regrouping day. All I’ve wanted to do is sit and watch the flags flutter in the breeze.    The pressures of life can wait another day; my heart needs to be still.

Flag Day is a great kickoff for a month of red, white and blue.   We celebrate our nation’s history and heritage for at least a month at this house.

Assuming I can get my act together, it should be a patriotic summer. Watch for more in coming days!

Until then, take a minute to watch a flag flying somewhere today and think of at least five reasons you have to be grateful for the American flag. I promise it will lift your day.

Hopeful Homemaker

Peony blooms

June 14, 2011 jennifer Gardening

Only one of the peony roots I planted weeks ago has sent shoots up. It’s fun to watch it slowly inch it’s way up. Impatient for blooms, I also planted a few more peonies. I’m loving my morning walks around the yard to greet my plants.

First up: Tom Eckhardt Peony I love the yellow in the center on this variety. So beautiful.

The second to bloom is a Karl Rosenfield Peony. I’m excited to watch it open completely.

Lastly, a Shirley Temple peony which has yet to unfold.

Dare I admit that I’d buy at least a dozen more if my budget would permit?

Last pictures with Grandpa

June 13, 2011 jennifer Musings on Life and Beauty

We made it safely home. It’s good to be back. I couldn’t help but think as we drove into our driveway that two weeks ago we did the same thing after spending the weekend in Denver to visit my Grandpa. Tonight we returned from his funeral.

We took these pictures two weeks ago today before we all jumped in the car to drive away. I knew they would be precious to us but had no idea he would leave us the next weekend. He had aged so much but was still himself, ready to joke with us and quick to observe the children.

And I love this picture of him with all my children, gesturing to explain something to them.

I miss him so much. I squeezed his hand, kissed his forehead, told him everything I wanted to say to him in case it was the last time. I’ll forever be grateful we made that trip and created powerful memories that are seared into my heart. Even so, I wish I could say it all again, kiss him one more time, hold his hand once more. I thought I was prepared for him to go but I wasn’t ready after all. He was such a wonderful man.

Jennifer