Have you ever met someone who you instantly liked?

There was something special about them and they left a trace of their goodness with you?

I was fortunate enough to cross paths with Grace Audet. She was one of those rare people you come across every now and then. She embodied kindness, warmth and selflessly gave of herself and did things no one asked her to do, like beautifying the neighborhood that she lived in.

If you have ever been on Euclid Ave. in Big Lake, near the intersection of Leighton Dr. and  noticed the array of colorful perennials and flowers growing by the townhomes, this was a labor of love by the late, Grace Audet.

I didn’t know Grace very well, but from the times I would talk with her, she left a good impression and I walked away smiling. I don’t know if it was the light that shined through her face and eyes or the genuine kindness in the way she talked with you. There was something special about her and you could feel it.

When I got to know Grace, she was probably in her 60’s, although you could not tell it.

She appeared to be ageless. Maybe it was all the healthy eating of natural and organic foods or the fact she kept busy, or maybe it was her loving spirit? She was conservative in the sense of how she dressed, long skirts, button up blouses and flat shoes with thick soles. Grace had very long hair, sometimes in braids and other times in a bun, a light complexion with rosy cheeks and an infectious smile.

Most times, I would see Grace outside. Like most diehard gardeners, there is daily work to be done to upkeep and maintain - planting, weeding, trimming, etc.

There were a variety of gardens spread out along this block. Wild flowers, roses climbing on arbors, lilacs, hostas, lilies, irises and various kinds of perennial shrubs, strategically planted for optimal growth and aesthetics. Being a gardener, I have a deep appreciation for other gardens. 

One day, I was passing by and saw Grace and decided to stop. I told her how much I admired all  that she had done and asked questions about some of the flowers.  She freely shared her knowledge, her love of nature and faith. She said to me with a big smile, “ I just love being outside in the garden and talking with my Father in heaven.”

These gardens reflected her passion and was evident in the landscaping that expanded over the years. It was her own little utopia in this small corner of the world. She did not have to do this, but I’m glad she did!

I later learned that Grace was part of the Sherburne County Master Gardeners. That explains her knowledge with plants. She also had a degree in elementary education.

That explains her knack for teaching and sharing what she knew.  Grace had a strong faith in God and was a devout Christian. That explains why “Grace never knew a stranger and saw each person with heaven’s eyes,” (taken from her obituary) and her kind and gentle spirit always came through.

When I heard that Grace passed away, I was deeply saddened. I got on my bike and went over to her gardens and took pictures. Every time I go by, I can’t help but look for her. In my mind, I can see her walking around, taking care of everything. It’s hard to think that she’s not here, at least not in the physical sense. It’s not the same.

More than the gardens, is the essence of who she was, the lives she touched, her faith in God and her ability to help make the world a better place. We could all learn something from her. Good deeds and a good heart have a rippling effect. Thank you Grace!