Throughout most of my life, my beloved aunt Patsy and I have written one another letters. We shared garden stories, she offered me practical homemaking advice and recipes, and we simply chatted. Her letter were like sitting down to share a cup of tea, even though she was many miles away. She has shaped my life in countless ways! She taught me to plant my garden for beauty, and with flowers that I loved. She encouraged me to take care and pride in hand sewing. And she shared many recipes, including a favorite chicken salad with Jersey blueberries. Through her stories and a treasured photo, she and my uncle were also my inspiration to learn to scuba dive. 

When I was young, I sent her a small brooch. It was a very small metalwork heart, but green, instead of the typical red or pink. From then on she signed her letters with a small, green heart above her name. I have saved every one.

This post is for her. Nearly 90, she no longer visits the ocean, but she still talks about happy family times down the shore.