It was a lovely spring morning when the "impudent" sun came bursting through the crevices of my window. It must have stirred me from a deep reverie or maybe it was just my internal alarm clock going off. It was time to start the day. As I crawled out of bed, I felt grateful to see the sun and I was already thinking of the day ahead. Time to welcome the new day. Like every morning, I go to the window, pull away the curtains and marvel at the majestic sun rising in the distance. I actually love the sun. Today I missed the pink-orange glow of its ascent but it is Saturday and I relish these mornings when my own body clock awakens me.
I heard some stirring in the house but I decided to ignore it. There is no need to rush to the office or to ensure my teenagers get anywhere on time. I will take things in my own stride today.
I started the day with a lukewarm shower - cold enough to activate my senses but warm enough to cushion me and make me want to linger under the shower forever. However, I was a lady on a mission. I got dressed and I slipped into my favorite yellow linen dress and my comfortable open-toed slippers. I brushed my hair up in a ponytail. I had not planned to scrutinize myself in the mirror but I caught a glimpse of myself. I decided to look closer and I was pleased with my reflection. The years have been good to me despite my teenage kids teasingly calling me their “old mommy”. It is done with love - I know and do not mind the teasing.
The earlier snickering I heard became more audible and soon there was a knock on the bathroom door. I opened the door to see my youngest daughter, Simone, holding a black silk scarf. She said to me,
“Mommy please close your eyes - I need to blindfold you.”
Without much protest, I acquiesced. I like surprises. Simone held my hand as she carefully guided me to the living room. I was told when I could remove the blindfold. I was very pleased to see the table set with a lovely breakfast. One would have thought that it was my birthday or that Mother’s Day came early. My husband and 3 kids showered me with kisses then we partook in this lovely breakfast.
My family is accustomed to my routine. My early morning mission is to see the progress of my garden. I am invigorated by my garden; even the best “black brew" does not compare. As I entered my rooftop terrace garden, I could see that my family had already filled the water cans. I had to smile but then I noticed something else. My plants looked lusher and greener than ever before. It was as though something magical occurred overnight. As I walked along watering each plant and inspecting them - I felt as though they were thanking me as they stood majestically and healthily. The tomatoes, peas, peppers, strawberries and cucumbers had so many fruits. Even the verdant leaves of the veggies seemed to shimmer in the morning light.
After leaving my garden, I decided to go to the park. I went to my favorite section, which was bedecked with Japanese cherry blossom trees close to the pond. I was thrilled that they were still in bloom. I spread my plaid picnic blanket and sat under the trees in the perfect spot. I could see the weeping willows on the other side. This area is so peaceful and beautiful.
weeping willows from my favourite place in the park
I took out my book and got lost in the pages. I only realized that hours had passed when I saw one of my closest friends walking her dog. She told me that she was meeting another friend for a picnic lunch. They decided to join me. As I only had water with me, it was a welcomed idea to have a delicious salad and my favorite fruit salad with my friends. What a treat!
After the picnic, we lingered in the park as there was a band performing. I wanted to return home as it was a perfect day for a barbecue. I told my friends this idea and they agreed. Shortly thereafter my husband called. He told me that he was going shopping for food for a barbecue, so I could relax and enjoy with my friends and bring them along later. It was as though my husband had read my mind. I joked that sometimes we communicate telepathically. I invited my friends to return home with me for our BBQ. They both accepted.
Upon arriving home, I opened the door and the smell of delicious foods wafted toward us. It was as though a master chef was present. Then we went to the terrace and saw Jeff - a master chef indeed - preparing a veritable feast. However, it was not only Jeff; some of my closest friends and family were there as well. I could not believe my eyes. It then dawned on me that the meeting in the park was orchestrated - in fact my whole day was. Everyone started hugging and kissing me. Then suddenly, from between the smiling faces and warm greetings came the biggest surprise of them all - my grandma walked towards me. I was gobsmacked but elated. I could only say,
“Grandma - it has been so long!!”
She responded,
“This is what happens when we live on opposite sides of the world; however I am here now my daughter.”
She came towards me and gave me the warmest hug. She always called me her daughter - I loved that.
I spent the next hours smiling from ear to ear. So much affection in one day is overwhelming but welcomed. I could hardly contain my joy and contentment as I mingled with the guests and thanked everyone for their presence. We danced and feasted on the gastronomic delights and passed the evening away with much merriment and storytelling.
As the magnificent sun casted orange red "flames" across the evening sky, I relished in the thought that everyone had secretly organized - a perfect day for me.
The photo is my own
This is my response to The Ink Well's prompt #17.