Mary Lou Parliman Tree Planting Memorial

Below is the synopsis of the the Memorial for long time Master Gardener Mary Lou Parliman (class of 1998). She worked in many gardens besides her home and greenhouse (Arboretum & Loyalton being the longest). She helped many friends become better gardeners and will be missed. Thanks to all who came and to those who contributed to the Mary Lou Parliman Memorial. On Saturday (11/3) it was sunny, but a bit windy at the Michael Moore Native Medicinal Garden at MNA. We all gathered at about 9am and spent some time getting acquainted. There were people from the International Cooking Group, old friends from the Arboretum and Loyalton, volunteers from MNA, and someone who helped her at her home and garden. The tree had been planted  prior to the gathering due to large size of its root ball. John Taylor dug the hole, Jan Busco helped with logistics and supplies, and with help from Matt  Schminechtig and his crew from Morning Dew, Laura Davis got it planted. Those who attended on Saturday each added an extra handful of soil. I presented the tree stake for all to see, and read a poem by Maya Angelou called "When Big Trees Fall" as a resident tarantula watched the ceremony. Because deer have been spotted recently in the garden fencing was added by Carol & Wayne Daily, and Linda Guarino. Linda donated the fencing from the garden at  Olivia White Home. BigtoothMaple After that the group gathered in Pearson cottage for refreshments and sharing stories about Mary Lou. A memorial book was available to send comments to her children. If you were not in attendance I have added your name. We decided the best description of her was feisty. She loved scotch and would do anything to get it.  Her favorite food was fish, she loved to swim, and she was a great mentor for gardening ( vegetables in particular). She was a great cook, but would not own up to that title. Several of her recipes were used for the food at the celebration.. She loved girl trips and many were taken - Santa Fe, Bisbee, Phoenix (Desert Botanical Garden), Carpenteria, and Hawaii. We talked about her many volunteer jobs - Arboretum (vegetable garden & gift shop), Loyalton (garden and teaching with residents), and in the gift shop at MNA. We all enjoyed the garden so much that we may gather in the spring/early summer to not only place her bench, but to just enjoy the beauty of it. All in all it was a great choice for a memorial. We could see Mary Lou smiling as we celebrated, wondering what all the fuss was about. Last of all, after purchase of the tree, bench, and tree tag we had $280 left which will be donated to MNA in Mary Lou's name. I have requested that John Taylor (takes care of the grounds) and the Michael Moore Garden share it next season. I am attaching a photo of the tree/tag and the tarantula. Thanks for participating, Loni Shapiro