Min, aka, Maria, Marie, Faye ... my sister

Today I had a special time with a whole bunch of my family visiting to share a lunch, it would have been our sister's birthday if she was still with us... she died in June 1997, we remembered her today.


I liked to call her "Min" I think that name came about because she was petite, and 'mini-mouse' seemed to come to mind for some reason, I can't remember a time she wasn't 'Min' to me... a few things I recall about her are her love of the beach and sun-bathing she loved to have a tan, she always planted flowers wherever she lived, creating a beautiful garden was one her priorities and an obvious outlet for her creativity.  

I remember shopping with her and buying little pots of Lobelia

She also loved to paint, she did some wonderful china painting on plates of delicate flowers and landscapes, as well as oils on canvas.

This is one of Kapiti Island off the West coast of New Zealand's North Island.  

I guess I'm thinking of her a lot this year because I am the same age she was when her life tragically ended, and whenever I think of this I am reminded that life is precious, and you never know how long you'll be here.  It's so important to do and be with the things and people you love.  


So today was a perfect way to do this, by spending some time over a meal with my family. Pizza's were the order of the day... gluten free ones for those who needed, my lovely husband kneaded and rolled all the dough, and about 13 pizza's later... everyone was satisfied.  


I feel very grateful


Denise xo