Sowing Words & Flowers: Creating a Seasonal Newsletter
The more I grow flowers, the more I am drawn to the quiet rhythm of the seasons (or maybe I really am just getting old?!). I notice how each season unfolds at its own pace, bringing both challenges and delights. Writing Cultivate: A Seasonal Miscellany feels much the same. There is an excitement in sharing the beauty of homegrown flowers, the delight of bringing them into our homes and lives, and the stories of those who grow and gather, but alongside that excitement is the vulnerability of putting words into the world and the quiet question: Will this grow, or will it wither?
Much like in the field, I’m learning to trust the process and be patient. I want to slow down, take a moment, and connect, not just with the changing seasons, but with others who love flowers, nature, and growing. Through Cultivate, I hope to offer a small pause in the rush of everyday life and a space to notice the beauty of each season. Seasonal flowers have a way of settling into our homes, our life celebrations, and our hearts.
Why a Miscellany?
I called this newsletter Cultivate: A Seasonal Miscellany because I wanted it to be a gathering of seasonal observations, musings, and inspirations - much like an old-fashioned miscellany. Traditionally, a miscellany is a varied collection of writings, ideas, and reflections, and that feels just right for this space. Each seasonal edition will bring updates from the field, my seasonal offerings, advice on growing and arranging, conversations with inspiring people, reflections on beautiful places, and a book or podcast recommendation. It’s an assortment all tied together by a love of homegrown flowers and the shifting seasons.
Connections & Conversations
One of the greatest joys that has come from growing flowers has been the people I’ve met along the way. After a lifelong career in nursing, I know I’m a people person at heart. I love connections and conversations like the ones that start with a shared love of a flower but unfold into something deeper. I’m incredibly grateful to those I admire who have given their time to talk. I love hearing about the winding paths that lead people to growing or floristry and the way flowers have found their way into their lives.
Behind the scenes, my flower field is also slowly taking shape, bringing hard work, new lessons, and surprises. And just like the field, writing this newsletter is also a process of discovery, of finding the right words, capturing a beautiful image (embracing imperfections!), and sharing something that, like my flowers, I hope will bring a little seasonal delight to those who read it.
So here’s to new beginnings, to sharing stories, and to welcoming the season ahead… one flower, one moment, one word at a time. I can’t wait to share it with you.
The Spring edition of Cultivate: A Seasonal Miscellany will be available from March 20th. If you’d like to receive your copy, please subscribe via the newsletter link on our website.
