Sunday, June 5, 2016

The Florence Nightingale Iris...


Margelyn Amanda Groves Berndt shares some memories and thoughts about her mother, 
Edna Virginia Matson Groves...  June 5, 2016
Edna and Margelyn - August 30, 2006 - at Maplewood Terrace
Dear Family,
Florence Nightingale Iris
I just learned today, from a FB friend's post, that there is a dark purple iris called 'Florence Nightingale'. I think that is SO cool, since iris's were one of Mom's favorite flowers, as well as purple/lavender being her favorite color! Combined with her dream of being a nurse, this 'Florence Nightingale' iris, captures it all! Her dream was never professionally fulfilled, but I believe it was lived out through her interest in medical knowledge, hospital visitation, volunteering at Gundersen-Lutheran Hospital
James & Edna Groves as hospital volunteers in LaCrosse, WI
and her God given gifts of nurturing, caring & encouragement. We can attest to her 'nursing skills' applied to us personally.

I recently was reminded of Florence Nightingale, as I was privileged to stand and recite the 'Florence
Christopher Berndt & Megan Johnson -
to be married Oct. 8, 2016
Margelyn and Megan Johnson
Nightingale Pledge', along with Megan's nursing class & other nurses in the audience, at Megan's nursing graduation on May 23rd. I only wish she & Megan could have met, this side of heaven.  She would have been so proud, seeing her dream becoming a continued reality in family & succeeding generations!
Florence Nightingale Iris
Iris's have always reminded me of mom......but now, even more!





Love,

Marge

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