Ocklawaha Prairie Restoration Area
We had started to hike this area several years ago but we did not go much past the woods on the right. It opened up to full sun on a hot day.
I took the bike today to see the entire trail, it is about 12 miles in total and very little of it in the shade. The first 5 miles is on a gravel and sand road that was not too bad to ride on. There is a part in the middle that does have some shade.
The last half of the loop is a car path with tall grass. It was difficult peddling. When my kegs got tired I did use the throttle for about 2 miles. The end of the trail was a little easier and I went back to peddling.
When I leave, don't let sorrow linger too long in your heart. Hold your words gently and cherish the memories that still bring warmth to your soul.
When I close my eyes for the final time, let me rest in peace. My journey will have reached its destination. If you miss me, sit quietly for a moment and look for me in the places I loved—in my books, my letters, my photographs, and in the notes I scribbled in haste. You will find pieces of me there.
Wear my favorite sweater, my old jacket, or the shirts I once wore. Walk the paths I walked. My room, my pillow, and my bed are yours now. On cold days, wrap yourself in my scarves. Enjoy the chocolate I saved, the wine I never finished, and listen to the songs that made me smile. Wear my fragrance from time to time and take care of the plants I left behind.
If my body returns to the earth, do not be afraid. Let your tears fall freely if they must. Feel the wind against your face and remember that life is still singing around you—in poetry, in music, in the rustling trees. Kiss the earth, drink from the rivers, and learn the language of the birds.
And if you miss me deeply, seek me in the simple things: in children’s laughter, in the aroma of morning coffee, in familiar melodies on the radio, and in the quiet corners where I once found peace.
Do not let the word "death" define me. Sometimes being forgotten is far sadder than leaving this world. As long as I am remembered with love, a part of me remains.
Bring flowers if you visit my resting place, but more importantly, celebrate life. Shout into the wind that life continues, that the flame of existence does not fade because one light has gone from sight.
Those we truly love never disappear completely. They live on in memories, in lessons, in laughter, and in the hearts they touched. What we call goodbye is often only a different way of staying close.
And when you reach out your hand in a quiet moment, perhaps you'll feel my presence beside you. Then you'll know that love never really leaves—it simply changes form.
One day, with a smile instead of tears, you will think of me and realize that I never truly went away. I have been with you all along.
Received 2 metal plates than can be affixed to the headstone.
This is the link.
I think I will do that the next time I am in Ohio.
Saw an alligator in the Preserves pond today while on one of my walks.
A little tiny guy.
The last place I got to spend time with you physically...
I have counseling in the building next door, it is tough to drive by it.
The walk path has a tree with butterflies hanging on it that people have placed as a memorial. I will have to look into getting one for your. I would rather have one of these than getting a brick carved in your memory.
I sat by the river for a while today.
Peaceful, quiet.
Missing you and the adventures we shared every day.
