When do I officially start feeling like spring has arrived in Wyoming? When my lilacs bloom, of course. Lilacs are my favorite flower. I love many but lilacs make me think of my childhood. My Grandmother had a large (at least large to me at age 10) lilac bush in her front yard. It had a space inside where it was hollowed out. I would imagine that it had vegetation in the middle of the plant at some time in it's life, but it seemed that it was getting ready to be the best fort ever! It had a spot in the side where I could easily slide in and hide. It was a great hide out for when we needed to hide because we had smashed berries from the neighbors bush all over the porch. Grandma didn't seem to notice that the lilac bush "giggled" as she called for us to spray off the porch and clean up our mess. I can remember relaxing in the middle of that bush and drinking in that smell.
When I was 11 my Grandmother suddenly passed away. We lived in her house for a little while to take care of my Grandpa. I would go sit in that bush and think about how much I missed her. You would think that lilac would not be all that comforting if it reminded me of that time in my life but it still is. When I would sit there and think about how much I missed her I would also think about how blessed I was to have her for 11 years. My younger Sisters would not remember how fun it was to be at Grandma's house. They would not be given a dollar once in a while to go to Village East and buy a bag full of penny candy. I was so fortunate to know my Grandma and to have lasting memories.
When I grew up and was planning my wedding I had my heart set on having lilacs in my bouquet. Unfortunately at the end of June lilacs were out of season in Mid-Michigan so I couldn't have my wish. We then decided to find lilac scented candles for the reception centerpieces. I kept the candles and for years after had the smell of lilacs in our apartment and in our first home. When we moved to Wyoming we settled in a town full of lilacs. In fact I have a large lilac bush in my back yard. When the spring rolls around and the lilacs start budding out, I feel that old sense of comfort coming back again. This time when my children pick a lilac and bring it in the house for me, I am not sad. I am reminded again how thankful I am that I had a wonderful loving Grandmother. I also am thankful that God gave my children a wonderful Grandmother too.
When something in life reminds you of someone or something you lost, turn it into praise. God blessed you with that person or thing for a time and give thanks that he did.
