This past Wednesday is what would have been my father’s 65th birthday. It is odd how this time of year, we are all reminded of him because of the poppies that are blooming all over California. I’ve tried, but cannot seem to grow these wildflowers, I can’t pick them (a strange California law) or buy them and they aren’t as prolific in other states.

They bring beauty to my life, the rich colors and the softness and fragility of their petals. I see them and I am warm, but also sad that my father isn’t truly here with us, enjoying my children, supporting me and my husband in our latest endeavors, chatting on the phone, doing on-the-fly design projects for me and my clients, sharing a margarita, just holding my hand. I still struggle with this loss and am creepily comforted by the fact that he won - he no longer has cancer or has his failing body to deal with. Perhaps there is a heaven and he is somewhere watching us from above, protecting us and helping us get through the difficulties in life. I suppose I wont know until it is my time. I wonder what my children and grandchildren will find to comfort them and remind them of me when my time has come…

If you are out there and reading this and lucky enough to live or be near California, please take a photo of some poppies and post them here.