Flowers talk to me – they speak my language. Wildflowers are probably my favorite because they’re so wild and free – perfectly imperfect, just like us. There’s something so comforting about being surrounded by wildflowers. They aren’t “trying too hard” yet they often take center stage in a room and I love that!

Peonies – I Love them too. Soft pinks, loud pinks and whites fit in well in any decor. They’re a little messy and maybe even complicated, which to me makes them all the more beautiful.

Ranunculus – So simple at first glance, but when you look closer, they’re really tightly wound. I so understand and relate to this special flower – it may be my favorite but I can never decide.

And poppies… I’ve only seen them a few times out my car window. They’re mysterious, and I heard they don’t last long after being cut, which makes them even more intriguing to me. Interesting always equals beautiful to me in some weird way.

From Farm to Flowers: My Grandma’s Legacy at 100

My grandma lived on a farm and taught me everything I know about flowers. For her 100th birthday, we made a bunch of mini sunflower-topped bundt cakes. They weren’t just dessert, they were a tribute to her and the beautiful life she lived. We all sat around in a circle and laughed and talked the day away while surrounded by her sunflower cakes. It was as close to a perfect day as you get.

I’ll never forget all of us sitting around her, singing “Happy Birthday” and “She’ll Be Comin Round The Mountain” – So Fun!! The look on her face singing so joyfully is forever imprinted on my heart. It was she who introduced me to flowers. No wonder I can’t live without them.