Seventeen years ago, Janet, the beloved wife of Howard Howes, passed away, leaving a profound void in his life. In homage to her memory, Howes created a heart-shaped meadow amidst a vast six-acre field adjacent to their farmhouse. This heartfelt tribute was adorned with thousands of oak saplings, meticulously planted in the months following Janet’s passing. Positioned with precision, the center of the heart aligns with Janet’s childhood home, symbolizing a connection that transcends time and space.
The existence of this hidden heart meadow came to light when Andy Collett, a passionate hot air balloon enthusiast, soared over the wooded landscape and captured its breathtaking beauty from above. For Howes, the creation of this memorial was an inspired idea born out of grief. Reflecting on his labor of love, Howes fondly describes the heart meadow as a place of solace and remembrance. Nestled within the tranquil surroundings of their farm in Wickwar, Gloucestershire, this enduring monument stands as a testament to Janet’s enduring presence in his heart.
With meticulous care, Howes oversaw the planting of thousands of oak trees, ensuring that the heart’s perimeter was adorned with a lush hedge. Additionally, daffodils were planted at the center, blossoming each spring to further adorn the heartfelt tribute. Howes recounts visiting the meadow, often sitting on a bench he installed nearby, finding comfort in the peaceful ambiance and cherished memories.
For Collett, who stumbled upon this hidden gem from the skies, the discovery was nothing short of extraordinary. The sight of the heart-shaped meadow nestled amidst the verdant landscape left an indelible impression, evoking a profound sense of wonder and admiration. Reflecting on the scene, Collett muses on the touching love story that undoubtedly inspired such a heartfelt gesture.
In the quiet expanse of Wickwar, Gloucestershire, amid the rustling of leaves and the gentle sway of oak trees, lies a poignant symbol of enduring love and devotion. Howard Howes’ heart-shaped meadow stands as a testament to the power of love to transcend boundaries and endure the test of time.