Resolutions! Everyone is in the the process of trying to fulfill those New Year’s resolutions! For me, one big promise to myself is to “eliminate clutter.” In my home, in my thoughts, in my life. So in an attempt to start this new year off right, I spent some time sorting thru the mess of a potting bench in the back yard. It’s the easiest area to start- gardening! Nature feeds, nourishes, replenishes us. Even as we...

Welcome December! Thought you might like a glimpse of an old fashioned Christmas- there’s something about a bird in a cozy nest amidst evergreens and blossoms that settles us into this season. This photo is a floral arrangement I made for my wonderful land lady, Millicent.   Did I mention, she just celebrated her 99th birthday in November this year?! and is looking forward to joining the esteemed group of Centenarians in...

This past weekend started off with quite a wonderful donation by Adrianne Smith Floral Design! Last Wednesday, I received a call. Due to the severe storms on the East Coast, Adrianne’s clients had to cancel an event, and she was wondering if Heliotrope for Hospice could use a donation of fresh flowers. Absolutely! On Saturday, I picked up 250 red roses, 90 violet hydrangea, 70 stems of rose hips and 6 bunches of acacia foliage!! WoW! my...

The change of seasons is in the air! In San Diego, Fall is different. It sneaks up on you- one day is on the cooler side, the next day is so hot with record setting temps, you’re heading for the beach! and yet, I have friends and family seeking out the beginning of Autumn by travelling to places where the Four Seasons exist, enjoying the riot of color as the trees go into their slow celebration of change. I have a tough time with...

The celebration of a wedding is one of those events that make you smile. In this business of flowers, it’s one of the most privileged occasions that you can be a part of- to create floral designs, customized for each couple to help them define their wedding day in a unique way. Flowers are for celebrating life’s special occasions, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it all! (photo: Thistle Dew Floral) This past July and August, there...

One of my personal favorites!  I think it’s time to challenge the bias against gladiolus! Seems most people associate them as “cheap”, used only in funeral work, immediately dismissing this gorgeous garden flower as one to be used in memorial displays. Oh yeah, time to change that perspective! Let’s take a good look at these long lasting beauties, full of blossoms from the base to tip of the stem! Botanically...