joecichjr Loc: Chicago S. Suburbs, Illinois, USA

This post is in memory of my mom, Frances, who passed away at age 98+ in 2019. She was an incredible life force and "the friend of a lifetime" as someone who writes way better than I do referred to his own mom.

These photos are from a little gem of a place called Shiojiri Niwa, a Japanese garden in the center of Mishawaka, IN. Mom and I went here every year, sometime twice. It was always so lovely and peaceful - which is why I enjoyed sharing our time together there.

Mom's not around, but I love her more than ever, and, if anything, the passing of time seems to make that even more powerful! The last ten days when I have been posting pictures like crazy on UHH, I have felt her presence next to me. This has been a magnificent blessing since the love of flowers is something that we both had in common, and its sharing brought us even closer 💓

I hope you all enjoy!

To the left of the entrance, a zen pond


A broad view of a portion of the garden


One of the garden's two traditional bridges


A typically spectacular Japanese maple 🍁


The subject of hundreds of shots I have taken


Yet another Asiatic wonder


Even where you're not allowed to walk, there's something wonderful to see


Sister Cindi and Mom at the garden, 2013. I'd like to think that the Heaven mom is in now is exactly like this. She would love it 💓💓💓

NMGal Loc: NE NM

A beautiful place and a beautiful way to remember your Mom.

bcheary Loc: Jacksonville, FL

A beautiful place to remember your Mom may she RIP!

joecichjr Loc: Chicago S. Suburbs, Illinois, USA

Thank you so much, Dear NMG

joecichjr Loc: Chicago S. Suburbs, Illinois, USA

Thanks very much for the, Brian, and I appreciate your kindness Whereabouts are you in Florida I'm Southwest suburban Chicago area, and it is getting chilly and crappy here - just in time for the holiday. I like to be outside, though most of the time now, I sit in my garage with the door up and a couple of space heaters so I can enjoy the view down the street and feel like I am somewhere other than "in the house." I love to take nature shots, but at this point, the birds are way scarce and all the vegetation is black and brown - and just dried and gnarly.

luvmypets Loc: Born & raised Texan living in Fayetteville NC

So sorry for your loss!! How wonderful that she saw 98 years on this earth!

Nice photos of that beautiful locale!! I wish the botanical gardens here had a Japanese garden; they are truly beautiful and serene.

I hope your mom's presence remains with you.

Dodie

bcheary Loc: Jacksonville, FL

I live in Jacksonville (N.E.Florida) and it is still quite pleasant although last week was wet and dreary! I have several feeders scattered around our back yard and the birds are around all year long. The hummers have left for the winter but will be back in the spring. Our winters are mild compared with where you live. Enjoy your Thanksgiving.
Cheers,
Brian

kpmac Loc: Ragley, La

A great sentiment and a lovely tribute to your mother, Joe.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

A beautiful tribute to your mother, Joe!

Bubalola Loc: Big Apple, NY

Agree...

Bret P Loc: California

Beautiful and touching.

SkyKing Loc: Thompson Ridge, NY

…thanks for treating us as part of your family and for sharing such personal moments in your life…your photos down memory lane have been really interesting to view these past few weeks…

Chance Logan Loc: New England

There is a certain meditative veracity behind the 'wabi-sabi' of Japanese gardens. I'm not up on all its historical background, but the calming effect of appreciation seems to have been successfully engaged for you and your mother. Your heart-felt respect genuinely comes through. Your memories will carry your mom and that peace with you, Joe.

yssirk123 Loc: New Jersey

Wonderful images Joe and a very nice way to preserve memories of your Mom.

junglejim1949 Loc: Sacramento,CA

Beautiful Japanese garden and wonderful way to remember your mom.