Three energetic girls with countless activities, my husband, an English setter, a house and my job as a conference planner are what keep me on my toes every day. In my spare time I love to read and walk but not at the same time!

On my walks I often admire landscaping projects in my neighborhood. Gardening has always been something I wanted to try but never had time to master. Little did I know breast cancer would provide the opportunity for me to learn a new skill.

Two people nominated me for a Hope in Bloom garden and opened up a whole new world for me. A bleak corner of my yard came alive this summer as a magnolia tree, clumps of daylilies, clematis, roses, anemones, veronica and numerous other plants were arranged around wide stepping stones. My children hand painted oversize plant labels and helped the garden take shape.

Charleen, my designer, has come back several times to offer handy gardening tips. I hear her voice in my head when I work in the garden, which gives me confidence. I plan to spend many delightful hours nurturing my flowers and watching them grow. I am very grateful to Hope in Bloom and the many volunteers who gave me such a beautiful gift!