Fathers, Flowers & Friends

Everyone who knows me, knows I’m a “daddy’s girl”.

My dad died 21 years ago – it seems like yesterday, and I still miss him. What I wouldn’t do to hear his voice, his hearty laugh and feel the roughness of his chubby arthritic hand, as he held mine to keep me safe, always. I hope all the fathers (and father-figures) out there had a wonderful Father’s Day. You make a difference, even when you think no one notices.

(117 W. Main) or online at www.cgcnv.org. The day of the walk tickets will be $15 and will be available at “The Green Space” (199 S. Wing, behind the Northville Library).

The Country Garden Club was founded in 1977. It is a 501(c)3 organization and is dedicated to community improvement through service, conservation and education. I’ve learned the members range from patio gardeners to farmers, “newbies” and advanced master gardeners. I’m afraid I don’t fit any of those descriptions – but I certainly enjoy a beautiful bouquet of flowers and I know how to can tomatoes, blanch beans and “put up” pickles. As long as someone else grows them!

P.S. Visit the Library and check out the display case. Country Garden Club has a display for June highlighting the need for native plants. They also donate fresh flowers weekly for the Circulation Desk.

ever Garden Party on August 5th. Mill Race Village is such a gem in our community. It seems so natural for them to host a Garden Party, and yet, this is the first. The Village grounds will radiate charm with blooming gardens and the decorated historic buildings open for visitors, each with a story of their own to tell. There will be strolling food, beverages and entertainment plus a silent auction. You certainly don’t want to miss this first. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www. millracenorthville.org.

“It is so graceful, especially when it wafts gently in the breeze. Some gardeners trim the bottom branches off, so they look like a lollipop. I like the tree left arching and reaching to the ground, as this one is.” Tricia, I agree.

My dad was a great gardener. (I am not.) Here in Northville, we have some incredible gardens. The Country Garden Club of Northville will hold their 29th Annual Garden Walk on July 12th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be six private gardens to view. One is at the home of an interesting Polish lady, Tamara Petonke. She also creates oneof-a-kind stone birdhouses –perfect for any eclectic garden. And she even etches Polish Eggs -- what an art that is!

Tickets are on sale now for $12 at Gardenviews at Home

And speaking of gardens, the Northville Historical Society just turned 50 and they’ll be holding their first

Last month I told you about the Northville Tree Champions (NTC) – and the search for a favorite tree around town. The tree with the most entries is a Weeping Cherry, located on High Street – between Dunlap and Main. “There are other weeping cherries around town, but this is the one to enjoy,” according to NTC member Tricia Tompson.

And finally, let’s talk about friends. Congratulations to all the graduates who are moving on to new adventures. My advice – take along your friendships. As the country song says, “Nobody gets a second chance to make new old friends.” Friends are truly a gift. And it’s hard to keep friendships alive – time and troubles, miles and memories…they test us. June 8th was Best Friend’s Day. One of my best friends has been my best friend for more than 50 years – and we had a chance to meet up in June. We know each other’s secrets. We share an unconditional love. We observe and never judge. I have other best friends – I use “best” as an adjective, not as quantitative. They often quote Axel Munthe: “What you keep for (to) yourself, you lose. What you give away, you keep forever.”

Dishing with you is like talking with my best friends. I share my stories and hope at least one or more of you join me – sharing a good story or two. And if another person joins, we could start a chain reaction that goes on forever…sharing stories to make our piece of the world a little brighter – like those beautiful gardens in our community. Maybe I’ll try grow something. My dad would be proud.

People of beautiful Northville, We are new to the area and in need of full time daycare for our 2 year old son.

Genuine mutual affection between you and the child is what we’re looking for!

Previously, he was in loving home care, where an elderly lady was taking care of him and 3 other kids at her own house.

Home care at our house (Stonewater) would also be conceivable.

If this is for you, please send a one page introduction and photo to daycare.northville@gmail.com

We are looking forward to hearing from you! –C&M