published Thursday, April 30th - 3:52pm
Looking back it seems like I always took some things for granted. Human nature, I guess...
My grand parents, Doris and Les, taught me a lot about life over the years. I owe them a lot. Both grew up in Australia. Doris was half Australian Aboriginal, living out in the scrub and harsh semi arid desert at the back of Bourke. Les, a true blue Aussie from Scottish decent, lived in Adelaide.
Doris and her family grew up dirt poor, not even being taught how to read or write. Times were hard in the 1920's and 30's, especially for Australians of mixed race. As World War Two approached both joined the AIF (Australian Imperial Forces). Les as an infantry man on a anti tank gun, and Doris in a women's auxiliary unit assigned to a nursing regiment. Both met and fell in love in New South Wales while serving.
After the War ended, they settled in what is now Glenelg South Australia (My home town). Les started a milk run business, delivering milk by hoarse and cart. Doris tending a small garden and helped with the dairy operation. Les taught Doris how to read and write, however reading Christmas cards from her has always been a challenge!
My Grand Father Les died many years ago. I was extremely close to both, but especially Les. You could almost say he was a mentor. After his passing I grew a lot closer to my grandmother Doris, as if she was almost always in the shadows when Les was alive, but none the less always there. She was always the stronger of the two and I spent a lot of time with her. My kids were lucky enough to get to know her as well. We have all made plenty of trips back and forth across the pacific to reunite.
After her passing, not too long ago, I felt a huge vacuum, as if my childhood with them was slipping out of memory. In the shadow of Les, I felt as if I took my grandmother for granted. As a memorial to her I planted in my yard a tree that I knew I would never take for granted, and would make me smile and feel warm at it's blooms simple purity.
Magnolias are hardy for Minnesota, but their blooms should never be taken for granted. Their swollen buds, before bloom, are sensitive to frost and damage may occur. That aside Magnolias are a beautiful tree, over coming true adversity even to survive in our harsh climate. They prevail winter to display spectacular blooms in early Spring, with lush green Summer foliage. As you drive around town right now, you will see them in shades of pink to pure white.
I always feel a sense of warmth flow through me as my Merrill Magnolia comes into bloom. I will always remember my grandmother's passion for life, devotion to family, and will to prevail and succeed.
My roots are secure, just like my magnolias roots are secure in my rich, moist soil. Protect your magnolias with a sunny, out of the wind location, next to your home. Every spring you too will enjoy one of the first Minnesota blooms for the season.
My family will also enjoy the same blooms and at the same time remember a true loved one. To Les and Dot...I no longer feel the cold...
Salute!
