When we lose someone that we love, we look for them in our surroundings—blue jays and robins singing in the morning as we drink our coffee on the dock, a doe grazing in the meadow. At the cottage, the connection between nature and self can amplify the feeling of loss, especially when we are mourning someone who called the cottage home.
As covered in our article “Can I Be Buried at the Cottage?” there are legal protocols in place surrounding the burying of your passed loved ones at the cottage. However, there are many creative ways to memorialize them. It can be cathartic and healing to channel your grief into a cottage project.
Here are four unique ways to memorialize your lost loved ones at the cottage and honour their legacy.
Benches
At my family cottage, we have a bench on a hill overlooking the lake—we consider this to be my grandfather’s place. When we miss him, it is comforting to sit on the bench and enjoy the idyllic silence.
Consider installing your own memorial bench on your property, perhaps somewhere where the sunset is especially spectacular. Choosing the placement for a commemorative bench can be a comforting exercise in reflecting on the person that you are honouring. Where would they most love to sit with you?
Benches come in a variety of materials, with wood and stone being most common. Additionally, some artisans offer engravement services.
Birdhouses
Birds can become symbolic of the people who have passed on. What better way to reflect on their essence than to designate a birdhouse just for them? A birdhouse is especially suitable in commemorating someone who was a bird or wildlife enthusiast. There are many artisans offering birdhouses, for example, Birdhouse Nature Company in Orillia; also check out Made in Canada Gifts for whimsical and fun birdhouses that are sure to honour your loved one while making you smile.
Sundials
A sundial is a symbolic representation of the fleeting nature of time and life, and is an ideal option for a commemoration of your loved one. Find a sun-soaked place on the ground or consider a pedestal. Businesses such as Apollo Sundials offer many personalization options including name and message engraving.
Memorial gardens
What was your lost loved one’s favourite flower? Consider cultivating a memorial garden—include their native favourite flowers, colours, and even add some decorative garden ornaments to really personalize this project. Consider planting a pollinator garden to honour someone who supported nature. Some people opt to use their memorial garden as a designated place to spread ashes, and this is an excellent option as long as you have permission from the landowner.
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