About 7 years ago, Jake walked into our backyard holding a giant sunflower that he unearthed for me. He was 14 at the time.
He stuck it into our garden box, as if hope would allow it to continue thriving there.
My sweet, funny and thoughtful boy..
That flower stayed in the same place for years, brown and stiff.
Some memories stain my brain with nothing but love and adoration.
Raising my kids, I handed down some of the silly things that I was taught, like blowing on dandelions (we call them “wish sticks” ) and playing “he loves, he loves me not” with flower petals...
I taught Syd how to make daisy chains and all the sing-songy rhymes we say while walking on sidewalks like, “step on a hole, break your mother’s sugar bowl.”
Sort of like a right of passage in childhood, I suppose.
When I contemplate the art that I want tattooed on my memorial sleeve for Jake, it’s important to me that each design is original and specific to mine and my son’s relationship.
Something that borrows from a memory, not to be lost, as long as I continue existing.
That sunflower needed it’s place on my arm.
I had the thought to incorporate one of the games I taught my kids, and the original idea was born.
I messaged @Hankster for some collaberative help in bringing it to life, because I love the way he communicates comfortable simplicity in his drawings, and because he has been such a kind and supportive friend.
He was happy to help (thanks again, Rik)
I wanted the old sunflower with one petal still attached, the rest of the petals at the stems floor.
He gave the leaf a subtle shape of a heart.. that brought me to tears.
Between Jake, Rik, my tattoo artist and myself, we designed a tattoo that means the world to me...
That is a beautiful story and a beautiful tribute.
Posted by FernappleI went for a walk in the woods today, and on a tiny oak tree, I found this wonderful cluster of, so called, Oak Apples.
Posted by HathacatLava-dome-hawaii
Posted by HathacatGustav klimt - early spring My favorite of this artist.
Posted by HathacatFort Point, San Francisco, before the Golden Gate Bridge. Another view of Fort Point - 1875
Posted by HathacatFort Point, San Francisco, before the Golden Gate Bridge. Another view of Fort Point - 1875
Posted by HathacatRussian Gulch State Park. Just above Mendocino. One of my favorite places.
Posted by FernappleI hurt my back yesterday sweeping up in the yard, so I am now reduced to sitting catching up with the accounts today.
Posted by HathacatNo one does stained glass like Nature.
Posted by HathacatCuteness times ten
Posted by HathacatPhoto by David Antoja No other description, but lovely!
Posted by HathacatTai - ne Marsas. Tai - Kazachstanas. Oh my!
Posted by HathacatTiffany window detail originally from Howell Hind House in Cleveland, Ohio built in 1898. I could stare at this all day.
Posted by StevilWhy i love Dandelions
Posted by HathacatI can relate, lol.
Posted by HathacatThere's nothing like seeing a green sea turtle soaring along in the great blue. Photo by © Jean-Philippe Leroux There is something so soothing about this picture.
Posted by sc62Day trip to the lake last weekend. I spent most of an afternoon next to this lily patch. It was such a nice, refreshing mini retreat.