SUNDAY MORNING IN THE PARK.

Again a lovely Sunday morning but this time we were out and about.

We were in Bonython Park by just after 10.00and ready for the rose planting in the the Gift of Life Garden which was due to take place at 11.00 - the weather was threatening rain so off we went with umbrellas and also sun hats - the sublime to the ridiculous.

A good crowd gathered to watch the planting of this years rose named

"Memory" which was planted by Mrs. Leesa Viahos MP representing The Hon, John Hill, Minister for Health and assisted by Dr. George Stolze as a Donor family representative.

Over the years the names of the roses planted in this lovely garden are:

2000 - "Reflection Rose"

2001 -  "Joy of Health Rose"

2002  -  "Joy of Life Rose"

2003   -  "Remember Me Rose

2004   -  "Peace Rose"

2005   -  "Sacred Heart Rose"

2006   -  "In Appreciation Rose"

2007   -  "The Children's Rose"

2008   -  "Remember Me Rose"

 2009   - "Close to You Rose"

 2010   - "Gift of Grace Rose"

2011   - "Memory Rose."

   I spoke to my daughter on the phone and mentioned where I was going and became quite emotional - there are tears yet to be shed but today was a time for remembering and giving thanks for everything to do with organ donation and transplant.

I did manage a few photographs, but generally was too caught up in the event and listening to the speakers and forgot.

It is a beautiful garden and so close to the City tramline and a busy arterial road - but a place to find comfort and solace.  I shall visit the gardens again and take a photograph of the rose that was planted today.

I had the opportunity to meet Brendon - a Donor Dad who belongs to my on line group Transplant Friends Australia - and we shared some of our journey with each other - I am so pleased to have met him.

I had the opportunity to view "The Book of Life" in which I feature and was standing at the lectern viewing the very large book with quite a few people viewing too and when I came to my page everyone was very interested and a young lady behind me touched me on the arm and said "I looked after you at Flinders".  It was lovely to meet Nat and say thank you.  She assured me I was looking very well and certainly not as yellow.  It was lovely to meet a nurse who had cared for me while I was in ICU - so I was blessed this morning in so many ways.

There was a song in my heart this morning and Nat was one of the nurses who had helped put it there.

It was a proud and happy experience.

Love and hugs,