“You had me at hydrangea”!

Something magical happened when I became part of the Sherman Library and Gardens (SLG) community. I had been looking for ways to make the next chapter of my life have special meaning, and check off some items on my bucket list. SLG has given me that opportunity tenfold.

I have been a lifelong gardener, travel enthusiast, and artist. I have been fortunate to have painted in some of the world’s most beautiful gardens. So, when I retired from over 35 years in the newspaper publishing and television broadcasting industries, how fortunate I was to have SLG just around the corner.

Here in Southern California, it’s all about a calm demeanor imparted by the sun, the beach, warm sand, fresh air, delightful dining, and plant life burgeoning with color. That color is exemplified in the synergy of visual delight on display year-round at SLG.

I am a “list maker”. Here are the three most important goals for my next decade:

Spend time nurturing friendships
Spend time nurturing the planet by being a good steward in the garden and sharing my art and talents for the benefit of the next generation, and
Make each day fun and be a beacon of hope.
Being an SLG volunteer offers me an opportunity to achieve all those goals. I get gentle exercise by helping groom the gardens with the guidance of world-class horticulturalists. I participate in fun social events with amazing volunteers (now friends) and staff (now friends) from SLG. I am happy that SLG emphasizes education for those who appreciate the beauty and importance of championing horticulture endeavors in today’s and tomorrow’s world. I believe that SLG encourages the relationship between art and nature. I am excited about embracing the “Grow The Gardens” plans to prepare these lovely botanical gardens for a sustainable future.

I love the experience of SLG and encourage anyone who seeks a friendly atmosphere of camaraderie to join me and the nearly 100 others as an SLG volunteer – it’s good for your soul.”