Taller inhabitants of the cottage garden swayed lazily in the warm sun, while shorter cousins played tic-tac-toe on the stepping stones. Seeing the profusion of plants made me gasp. Surely I had arrived at heaven’s gate.

At every turn, the garden showed the imagination and joyful spirit of its creator, LAURIE MOSOLINO. She and her husband, local realtor JOE MOSOLINO, have been married for 15 years. My visit to their home made a powerful impression on me, one I will attempt to describe here.

It’s not the French doors opening to the inviting porch or the trails worn into the wood floor by generations of people and pets. It is much more.

It’s not the ambiance of objects dear to them, such as dozens of family photos or mementos picked up at far-away duty stations, but that is also part of it.

Perhaps it’s just their nature, a kindness they inherited that rubs off on everyone around them. No airs or pretense. Each guest is made to feel at home.

Perhaps the magic is in Joe and Laurie themselves, and their children Clay, Lily and Madeline. What makes this ordinary family remarkable is their respect and regard for one another.

One doesn’t learn this anywhere but within the walls of a loving home. You learn it especially well when you come close to losing what matters most to you in the world — your wife or your mom.

You see, besides being a wife to Joe, mother or three great kids, Master Gardener and retired Navy Captain, Laurie is a breast cancer survivor. I felt honored to finally meet the incredible woman I had only heard about. She looked strong and fit, enjoying a good laugh, shoulders back, chin out.

After our goodbyes, I wanted one more look at this enchanted place. Just then one of our typical afternoon wind gusts shook the garden. Plants were tossed about, arching this way and that, but they weren’t destroyed. Like the woman who knelt in the soil to plant them, they are resilient and strong. I felt at peace to see this demonstration of faith in tomorrow. May you all, dear readers, find such hope in a garden.

Parents take on project …

“The kids need a new, fun playground,” said T.J. Pierzchala, speaking of the tired out playground at Crescent Harbor Elementary School. “I attended third through sixth grades there 30 years ago, and there is the same tired equipment in use today.”

To correct that situation, the Crescent Harbor Parent Teachers’ Association is raising money to build a playground. Their gift jars are on sale at the Oak Harbor Farmer’s Market every Thursday throughout the summer, containing ingredients for soup or desserts, all packed with care by PTA members themselves. Jars cost from $5 to $8.

They have a long way to go. The first week brought in a little over $100; their goal is $30,000.

Individuals and organizations interested in helping them may contact Glen and Angela Thomas at 240-9754 or e-mail gaanthomas@comcast.net.

If you can’t make it to the market and wish to buy some of these delicious pre-assembled dishes, call Glen and Angela and they’ll see you get whatever you need.

Welcome, equestrians …

HELEN CHATFIELD-WEEKS, a woman of many talents and interests, reports the 30th Whidbey Island Pony Club Horse Trials is set for this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 7, 8 and 9, off South Zylstra Road in Coupeville.

This year, 275 riders will compete in three riding disciplines: dressage, cross-country and show jumping, equestrian sports featured in the Olympic games.

Riders come from five states and British Columbia. All former club members and sponsors are urged to attend the dinner Saturday evening. Just follow the signs on South Zylstra Road. Call 675-5464 for more information.

Starry, starry night …

The Island County Astronomical Society is hosting a Star Party to benefit Help House this Friday, July 7, from 7 p.m. to midnight at Windjammer Park in Oak Harbor. Different telescopes will be set for the best viewing and members will answer your questions.

Folks of all ages are welcome. All you need to bring is two items of canned food to donate to Help House.

Call Rick Owens at 675-2269 or write to ICAS_rick_krys@comcast.net.

You can’t pick ‘em …

Neighbors are perhaps the most misunderstood people around. Too bad we don’t take the time to get to know them.

JOE HOING had a bright idea last year to bring neighbors in Penn Cove Park together for a July 4 potluck. The event was repeated on Walker Avenue yesterday with hot dogs, sodas and people making up for lost time. Now we can do the neighborly thing and be watchful citizens when they are away.

What’s new in your neighborhood? I’d love to hear from you. Write to me at lifeonwhidbey@yahoo.com or call 675-6611.