A Garden Of Memories

By Phran Novelli

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Spring is a time of renewal, and the holidays celebrated this time of year often include symbols of rebirth - from eggs to fresh herbs and the first green vegetables. The cycle of life and what's growing in each season go hand in hand, so it's not surprising that we find hope in struggling shoots, unfurling flowers, and buds breaking on bare branches.

The other day, I had the honor of strolling through the gardens of a friend who recently died - a lovely, brilliant classmate from the Arboretum School of the Barnes Foundation. Wandering through her meadow as her daughter plucked a bouquet from fields of daffodils, we saw Anne's garden springing to life - lilacs blooming, viburnum leaves unfolding, carpets of bee balm coming alive underfoot.

With each plant we touched, we could feel Anne's presence, and we were reminded of her love of Nature and her artful eye. A garden isn't just a pastime for this lifetime, it's a legacy you leave to delight those you love - and many you'll never meet - for generations to come.