18 Comments
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Jeffrey Streeter's avatar

"There are so many ways to live a brave life." An especally moving line in a moving post, Leslie. The way you and your sister were able to connect while watching that film is impressive.

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

Thank you, Jeffrey. You are a very close reader. I woke up during the night after scheduling the publication in the early morning and added that line and rerecorded the audio.

Lynne Calkins's avatar

All these wonderful people expressing my thoughts: A beautiful post and loving tribute to Bernie.

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

Thank you, you helped make it a good Memorial Day!❤️

Robert Kushner's avatar

Beautiful post, in every way.

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

Thank you Bob, it was a good day. Beauty does that!

Robert Kushner's avatar

We had a Peace rose bush behind my mother's studio. It was superb. Vigorous branches, sturdy leaves, and spectacular and frequent flowers. A queen amongst her acolytes. I love that so many of the historic roses have public event references. Interesting research on your part.

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

It is a gorgeous rose and a very successful parent. It was officially named and presented in Pasadena on April 29, 1945, at the first annual rose show of the Pacific Rose Society. The unveiling ceremony coincided with the fall of Berlin, and white doves were released to celebrate the impending end of World War II. The curator of the Rose Garden at the Huntington is a retired hybridizer and he knows just about everything about roses. These stories are one of my favorite parts of sharing the plants with visitors. Do you know if your mother planted the rose? I think planting a "Peace" rose is a statement of hope for the future! It is still a popular rose.

Paulette Bodeman's avatar

This is such a beautiful post, Leslie. I'm imagining your husband and how his students must have so appreciated him and his ability to make history come alive. I've not seen the movie, but it's on my list now. Thank you.

I'm also sorry to hear about the illness your sister is living with. That's a tough road. I'm happy you got to share with her through texting.

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

I appreciate the caring note It is an uplifting film and based on a true story.

Cathy Joseph's avatar

What a fantastic teacher your husband was to make history come alive. That is such a gift to those fortunate enough to be in his classes - or married to him. 😉

I love the rose display! I went to the Huntington forever and a day ago when I lived in Los Angeles. I was in awe of their magnificent gardens! Like your husband's students, the Huntington is lucky to have you as a docent.

I remember that movie - so beautifully done! Perfect for Memorial Weekend viewing or any other time! Thank you for all this beauty, Leslie!

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

Thanks Cathy! It was a good day, I was 'surprised by grace.'

Cathy Joseph's avatar

May all of our surprises be good ones...! 😊

Tiffany Beasley's avatar

How exciting to learn the history of rose ‘America.’ I have this rose. No blooms yet this year, but I just looked through my photos from last year. Such a beauty!

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

It is a beauty and such a wonderful fragrance! We had an early bloom this year, by about 2 weeks. We had record heat for a week in early March and that was all the roses needed to get going. the garden was in full bloom by early April. Enjoy your America rose!

James Bailey's avatar

To Bernie. 🙏👏. Thank you for this Leslie.

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

Thank you Jim. I loved your recent post, I haven't replied yet because I am still pondering it all.

James Bailey's avatar

Ponder away Leslie. It took me three months to write it as pondered and pondered and pondered. 😊