A shady and forgotten spot
lay nestled in a far corner of my property. Sunny areas,
where brightly colored flowers bloom, had always gotten
my attention. Nothing about the dimly lit area appealed
to my senses.
Three years ago, when my sister in law died, I decided
to try using that neglected corner as a site for a memorial
garden. The shade, I hoped, would lend itself to introspection.
A Japanese garden seemed in order as they are, by design,
quiet, contemplative places. To my delight I discovered
that so many shade plants are Japanese in origin and
would therefore ensure the authenticity of my garden.
Shade became my ally.
An arch designed by my husband beckons you to enter.
Japanese characters, which I painted on a post, proclaim
it to be "Fuzzy's Garden". River rocks were
used to simulate a stream; follow it and you shall find
azalea, painted fern, aucuba and hosta. Delights are
not immediately apparent; your senses are gently guided
to discover a pagoda or a crane.
