The work of a garden bears visible fruits-in a world where most of our labours seem suspiciously meaningless.

Medicines may be necessary. Flowers lift the heart. But your smile is the best restorative of all.

A cat likes to hear you calling him. He sits in a bush a yard from your shoes - and listens.

You never realize how much your mother loves you till you explore the attic - and find every letter you ever sent her, every finger painting, clay pot, bead necklace, Easter chicken, cardboard Santa Claus, paperlace Mother's Day card and school report since day one.

You took me to adventure and to love. We two have shared great joy and great sorrow. And now I stand at the gate of the paddock watching you run in an ecstasy of freedom, knowing you will return to stand quietly, loyally, beside me.

A dog wakens your heart to joy and companionship.

The trouble with sharing one's bed with cats is that they'd rather sleep on you than beside you.