Monday, July 6, 2009

Y is for Years Passing

Mrs. Nesbitt's ABC Wednesday round 4 has reached the letter Y. The above link - also the banner to the left - will take you to participating blogs. Thank you, Denise!





Every year since 1998 I have designed a calendar for friends and family. The custom was started several years before that by my oldest son, and I only took over the practice when he tired of it.

These covers of calendars of the passing years are on 11 by 8.5 inch paper, 32 weight, with a clear plastic cover on top. Each month inside has a similarly sized picture with a pendant calendar marked with important dates - important to the calendar recipients, at least.

These calendar covers prove that the first decade of the 20th century has almost run its course. Sadly, 2009 is the last calendar that will be from both Otto and Phyllis.

Here Otto stands on the Stanford University campus with the chapel in the background. Stanford University is where Otto and I met and fell in love.


This was a sunset view from our bedroom window.

In our front entry hall.
That somewhat battered Webster's dictionary
(brown book at the left) is the one that Otto used as a booster seat
at the table when he was a small child.

California poppies speak for themselves.

I took this picture of sprouting coconuts when we visited Costa Rica.

One morning I arose earlier than usual
and spied this view of San Francisco across the bay
as the rising sun illuminated the tall buildings.

This beautiful wreath of sedums was on a neighbor's gate.

Asilomar near Monterey was the sight of our family reunion
to celebrate Otto's 90th birthday.

This visiting buck apparently enjoyed our backyard lilies.
I took this picture from an upstairs window
in order not to disturb him.

The pictures below show how the October calendar will look as it hangs above my desk. And when I look at it, I will treasure the memory of this, the last October that Otto and I were together.

25 comments:

Rune Eide said...

A touching and ant the same time inspiring post. A Y with a difference.

I take off my hat.

Miss_Yves said...

A very touching post, and a great idea to suggest time is passing.
!Thanks for visit and your sweet words .

B i r g i t t a said...

Just lovely photos from different years :)
Have a nice day!

Helena said...

Granny Smith you humble me! I cannot believe how much you do! It's been a very poignant and intriguing custom to take over!

photowannabe said...

A very touching and poignant post. I love the memories that your calendars show. Wonderful idea.

Maggie May said...

A touching post that is a tribute to your dear husband. The years you had with him. Brilliant.

Reader Wil said...

This is a beautiful choice for Y and at the same time a very moving story! Thank you for sharing! It's a beautiful tribute to your husband.

Jay said...

Those are wonderful, Phyllis! You are talented! I've had calendars made for me by my friends and I always value them greatly. It's the personal touch!

anthonynorth said...

Moving and poignant. A great tribute.

Mara said...

What a lovely idea and brilliantly worked out! I might give it a go myself! Even if it were only for me...

Understanding Alice said...

This is lovely, what a great set of memories! you have reminded me of the importance of taking photos x

mrsnesbitt said...

Oh Phylis this brought tears to my eyes, yet it also occured to me that as you and Otto were p to speed with technology, that the digital memories you have on record will be a source of hope and comfort as you tackle the times ahead! Each photograph stored will equate to memories beyond compehension!

Hugs Dxxxx

2cats said...

Thank you Granny.

Bradley Hsi said...

Your post moved us greatly. The calender showed us the feeling of two of you to each other. I remember you blog let know of Otto's passing. Take care of yourself.

Tumblewords: said...

A tender and touching post. Your photography is superb and well adapted to such a lovely use.

Hildred said...

The Years pass, and it is so important to live each day fully, - your photos are a poignant reminder of the joys and preciousness of time together.

Roger Owen Green said...

Yes, I too was moved by the years passing motif. thank YOU very much for sharing.

Giggles said...

So much happiness and grief to walk through. So many firsts. Very touching post. You spoke about the calenders before, nice to finally see the photos. So much love exudes off the page.... very poignant post.
Thanks for sharing.

Love and hugs Sherrie

Jama said...

The year pass too quickly, it's already July and soon 2009 will be saying goodbye....

Rose said...

A lovely and touching post. Your photos suggest, though, that you and Otto didn't just sit back and watch the years pass--you enjoyed life fully. You must have many special memories of your times together.

Q said...

Thank you.
I am touched and inspired. My husband and I love our photgraphy. I think I just might do a calender.
My children would enjoy such a gift and so would my kitchen. 2010 would be a fine year to start this tradition.
Thank you again.
Sherry

Unknown said...

I am crying for your loss dear, sweet Granny Smith. But I am also so thankful for the gift of love you were given. So precious to have had such a great love during your life. So many people never have that. I pray for you often. Love, Becky

Beverley Baird said...

Brilliant and poignant. What a treasure of memories you have.
Take care.

Janie said...

Your calendars are beautiful and artistic and I'm sure hold many great memories.
The pages tell the wonderful story of love and joy through the years.

Unknown said...

I started working on a calander for my parents this year inspired by your post : ).