I grew up on a small gulf island off the east coast of Vancouver Island. As a child my happy place was when I was in my auntie’s garden. Sitting in the raspberry patch eating as many as I could, before being called away for some garden “duties”. I started working in other local gardens and on farms in the summers when I was 10.

I always loved to watch the spring bulbs push through the cold earth and marvelled at the colours they produced as they bloomed. The forest was my playground and a constant source of tranquility. I sometimes wonder if I stay in my profession because I love it or if it is my safe place.

Without this work, I would miss the hummingbird’s little chatter saluting me each day in every location… As if to say “Hello” or perhaps just to let the others know I am around.

I was asked the other day what I love most about my work… For me, it’s watching the spring leaves uncurl, the change in their green, and the colours produced before they fall. How the rose blooms from bud to blossom, just at the right time, slowly, unique and perfect each time. The smell of the earth when the rain moistens the dirt, after weeks of dryness.

Yes, I also do appreciate my wonderful clients’ smiles when their homes are enhanced, either inside or out, with the floral colours of the season.