Today was the big day for moving Mom out of her apartment. What’s left of her worldly possessions now fits in a Ford panel van and a Toyota Prius. Actually, probably only half of what is packed tightly in those vehicles now belongs to three of Mom’s daughters. Not even a flea could fit—and we still had to leave some things behind.

We said goodbye to our parents’ dear friend Vern, who came by for a chat this afternoon. I also took Mom to Fort Ben Park one last time for a walk through the walnut grove and back to the lake. She told me she now has a beautiful memory of spending a beautiful afternoon with her daughter at a favorite place, one that is special to both of us. That’s my nature mama, who raised a nature girl. And how fitting for National Take a Walk in the Park Day.