When was the last time someone gave you the favor of time? It's a rare gift these days, and all the more precious because so few of us have time to spare.
Today, my oldest sister gave me the favor of an entire day. Yesterday, she helped Dear Husband put the boat in the water. It was her first trip on the Arr!! and it was a major success! She enjoyed the trip up the river, the experience of going through a lock, and motoring to the mooring. She ate the wonderful catered meal, and was so relaxed, she fell asleep on the deck!
When they came back from the lake, she called her husband and announced that she was staying overnight, and would be home late today.
Everyone was in bed by nine yesterday. This morning, I was up about 6:30 to walk the dog, collect the newspaper and get an early start. Sis had her morning cup of coffee and chatted with Mother for a bit, and by eight in the morning, we were working on the grounds.
She took a shovel, and dug out an infestation of Snow in the Mountain. I used the extended saw blade to cut down the dead oak branches that were in her way. Then I weeded the wild patch near the Weber grill, and she pruned the pear tree so we could mow around it. We both worked at cutting back dead shrubs along the drive, and I dragged them down to the chipping pile.
We decided that she would ride the lawn mower while I planted and watered things. She had never ridden a rider mower, but she HAD been a school bus driver, so I figured she could cope with it. She enjoyed herself so much I couldn't get her to stop! She was trying to figure out how she could take the mower home with her.
Today I learned that I have TWO sisters who don't have stop buttons. Last year, my youngest sis helped me in the herb garden. This year it was my oldest sis who helped. She put me to shame. She's ten years older than I am, fitter, and runs in high gear all the time.
The gift of company while working on the grounds was priceless. It can't be compared to hiring someone to work with you. She helped me because she WANTED to help me, and I thank her from the bottom of my heart. I have tiny parts of the next four days when I can go out to finish this work to be ready for a brunch on Friday, and I think I might be able to get it all done, thanks to her.
Sis, you're WONDERFUL!
Comments (5)
That was ALL so wonderful of her! ahh... you do make me miss having a sister live nearby.
The last time I gave the gift of time? Hmm... not sure, that so sucks. :(
Posted by Desiree | May 17, 2004 1:47 AM
Posted on May 17, 2004 01:47
That was ALL so wonderful of her! ahh... you do make me miss having a sister live nearby.
The last time I gave the gift of time? Hmm... not sure, that so sucks. :(
Posted by Desiree | May 17, 2004 1:50 AM
Posted on May 17, 2004 01:50
Yes indeed, I share time with family/freinds whenever I can. Nothing beats it.
Sounds like you both enjoyed doing the work outside...the company makes it even easier, doesn't it!?
Posted by Dr. D. | May 17, 2004 8:19 AM
Posted on May 17, 2004 08:19
It's been a few years since I've been able to "share" yard work with anyone and you've made me green(er) eyed with envy. It strikes me that, although it is super nice of your sisters to pitch in, they probably get good returns on their investments. Good for all of you!
Posted by Cop Car | May 17, 2004 12:35 PM
Posted on May 17, 2004 12:35
Des, it's a joy to have time with my sisters. Their lives are all so jam packed that we don't get the time together that I would like.
Doc, you're right. The job was SO much more pleasant with company!
CopCar, my sisters are exceptional, and I wish I could do more for them.
Posted by Buffy | May 18, 2004 1:56 PM
Posted on May 18, 2004 13:56