Dear Reader:

When the wonderful John Lee agreed to build me a moon gate for my still dream garden that originally was going to be designed for nocturnal plants ( like moonflowers ) the big cut-out circle in the middle of the gate would be considered the magical entrance …as my grandchildren started appearing in my life.

In this Easter photo… Eva Cate was four and already knew about the secret magic entrance that required anyone entering to whisper ” Good Night Moon… Good Night Stars.”

Rutledge ( being held by Kaitlyn) was less than a year and Mandy was expecting Jake…a very ” productive” period of time in the Dingle family.

Before the children would visit … I always hid a small toy or treat in the garden so it would always appear to be producing magical gifts …besides the typical plants and flowers. This was the time the ” fairies” entered the garden and both the little boys and girls loved finding another fairy toy to add to the ” fairy garden.”

As time continued … only the children could still easily hop through the moon gate … by the time my first moonflowers outlined the moon gate I had to settle for squatting and posing.

Today the gate has to stay pulled back because of rotting boards and sharp nails protruding from the open ” moon” circle.

And one question to Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton … when I get to the Pearly Gate… hopefully- Will somebody be helping us older guys and gals in and out of the ” low gate of heaven?” ( A ” yes” would be quite comforting” ) Your ” humble” fan.

So until tomorrow… The multiple symbolisms associated with the word ” gate” are many. When we pass through a gate we are making a choice to enter a new phase of life. Whether the gate leads to a new garden, house, opportunity or even heaven… we must be willing to embrace the other side and open up our hearts and souls to the possibilities of a new life… a new ” us.”

Today is my favorite day-Winnie the Pooh