Spring is upon us with such cheery blooms and scents – from new mown grass, to the subtle fragance of indian plum and the curious and I think wonderful scent of skunk cabbage.
I’m thankful once again for the prolific bulbs down at Sieverts house I get to see on my bike rides.
It’s hard to know what to include in this newsletter since March brought with it the untimely end to our dear son-in-law, Tuan Nguyen, after a dealing with cancer for the past 3 years.
He was surrounded by many family members and close friends the last 3 days, while waves lapped below the house at a sweet spot on Vashon Island – all unplanned but so perfect.
It’s hard to know what to say, but since I’ve always shared about my family in the newsletters, to some extent, then it would seem wrong to write this without acknowledging his passing. The Nguyen family showed us the way to a graceful and meaningful death, where all issues were laid out and dealt with honestly and kindly.
Some of you have received my newsletters since the days Leah helped in the nursery, with her vast knowledge of plants and design. You are woven into our journey, so I want let you know of the major changes in our world.
Tuan was a loving father, partner, sibling, coworker and friend. Tuan shared his wisdom, humor, art and stories until the very end. He promised not to be a “slacker spirit or deadbeat ghost” saying he would have a feast waiting for his friends and family as they arrived in the spirit world. He was a treasure in this world to all who knew him. Many who love him speak of his calm centeredness, incredible laugh, wonderfully dark humor, and the deep acceptance Tuan brought to their lives. Tuan’s grace and love in passing was a beautiful model for the transformational power of dying well.
Tuan was so very proud of Pasha, both her wit, and intelligence and drive to dig deeply into whatever her interest is. Pasha has wanted to be an astrophysicist for many years, and already has attended UW summer classes at the Robinson Center for Young Scholars.
Tuan let Pasha know that he would be proud no matter what they choose to do in life and asked Pasha to move toward joy, always. In memory of Tuan the family welcomes donations to Pasha’s
college fund If you make a donation, please let the family know so they can express their gratitude. Leah’s email is leah.m.nguyen@gmail.com
I have been thinking a lot about how I can support Pasha and Leah as things have changed so much for them. Seeing how bright and driven Pasha is, I have decided to offer a few classes where all profits go to Pasha’s college fund.
The first class will be May 5th, here at the gardens.
You will have access to my vast supply of papers, Dresden ornamentation, Italian crepe paper, and card stock with ample instructions on making cards, ornaments or ribbon held ramillettes.
The class will be 6 hours to allow you time to make and finish a few things.
I have not offered the 3-D ornament making class before so this is your chance to learn how to make these popular ornaments I sell at the Winter Market!
Click on the link below to find out more about the class and other photos. It’s a joyful and colorful craft that I bet many will enjoy.
Another popular class is my pie making and all can be successful no matter the myths of making a great crust! Class will be limited to 8 and you’ll all construct a pie to take home to bake, as well as enjoy a slice of one I’ve made. Handouts included for both regular and gluten free crusts as well as filling ideas.
Yum – you’ll be glad you got a new skill. Click the link above to see more and register.
Another idea I have for Pasha’s college fund is to offer custom sewing for tops or dresses.
I included a few sample photos below of earlier projects. These vary in price depending on fabric and amount of hand stitching / details incorporated.
We can talk about your ideas and I can show you fabrics if you’re interested. I have many more photos since I’ve been selling clothes for over 6 years.
Once again all profits will go to helping Pasha achieve her goals.
Very comfortable dresses which include Japanese tenigui.
Comfy tops! (Owner of this top – Shirley Collins )
Indigo dresses – hand made shibori fabric used for this one.
Linen dress to match the baby Jura!
This was Tuans last drawing – a custom order for a friend who wants to get a tattoo of the Flying Tiger his grandfather flew during WW2
He drew this just hours before he passed and was so honored to be asked.
Let’s end this email on a fun note – our neighbors have these really cute spotted pigs that are often hidden away but yesterday I was finally able to get photos. They are very small and I adore the spots.
May your spring be bright with flowers and soft breezes and be sure to appreciate the friends and family you have in your life.
Mary Fisher
www.cultusbaygardens.com
7568 Cultus Bay Rd
Clinton WA
Whidbey Island
360-622-6275
