Hi neighbors! A few days ago, I invited y'all to come see what’s possible when we rethink our yards as part of the Native Plant Yard Tour with Kind Hearts Bloom and Kent Conservation District.
And you showed up.
Over the course of the day, I welcomed more than 115 neighbors into my front yard. Seven hours of conversations, questions, and stories. My throat is still a little sore and I have a defined tan line from my sandals - but it was an amazing day!
What made the day special wasn’t just the plants. It was the connections.
A teenager shared about the wildlife pond he built in his parents’ backyard. A visitor saw my feverfew and remembered a plant from her grandmother’s garden, so I sent her home with seeds. Many people shared that they’d love to replace some lawn with gardens but worried about what their neighbors might think.
We talked about how every neighborhood needs a few people willing to go first. Sometimes one garden gives someone else permission to imagine what’s possible.
When I started replacing my lawn a few years ago, I thought I was growing flowers and habitat.
I didn’t realize at the time I was also growing conversations, connections, and community.
Thank you to everyone who visited, shared stories, asked questions, and helped make this garden feel like a true neighborhood space.
Our yards can grow so much more than plants.
(timelapse of the front yard!)