I had been to the garden several times seeking to close the circle of the year and the seasons. It had never felt right though to write the last words about this place.
I instinctively felt that today was the right day though. Once again the garden taught me what it wanted. Today the garden was filled with the sounds of wattle birds, cockatoos and tiny wrens. Somehow though it was also very quiet. Work has obviously been undertaken there in recent weeks, since other than for wind dropped branches and leaf litter it is neat and trim and cleared and planted.
The owner wasn't there though. Neither was Tiny. Their absence was noticeable - no welcoming bark from Tiny, no quiet talk with the owner.
I reflected on the year as I wandered the familiar paths. This garden has provided me with a haven. Its beauty and tranquility have soothed me often. This year different plantings have been undertaken by its owner - so the year that was captured may not ever be seen in this garden again.
Thank you to Cherrydell's owner - Don LeQuesne - whose generosity in allowing me to freely wander through his garden has meant more to me than he will ever know.
