These Dahlias were volunteer sprouts in my bouquet garden one year. I was so excited that 2 different colors bloomed on the same plant that I snipped them off and brought them inside for a photoshoot. Every time I see them, they make me smile. The flowers look like old friends, laughing or singing together. The whimsical tones of kinship and loyalty inspired me to create the “Let’s grow together” design.

I feel that choosing to grow alongside someone, being able to witness, support, and love many versions of them is a sacred task. I feel honored by the opportunities to conquer challenges, to overcome hardships, to change, to transcend, and to grow with another soul – at different paces, in different ways, incrementally or exponentially, sometimes against all odds, but together.

Life is full of twists and turns and not everyone is meant to join us for our whole journey. And that’s okay. Bitterly painful sometimes, but okay. We can still honor the short walks we take with those who are authentically rooting for us. The souls who carry us, challenge us, show us their truths, and help us find our own. The souls who lend us their strength, their smile, their courage when we need it the most. Those who, join our path temporarily, but leave a permanent mark on our hearts. Those who laugh with us, cry with us, fight beside us, make us better, and grow as we grow. They’re now a part of us, both those who no longer walk with us, and those who’ve never left our side.

As I write this so many names and faces tug at my heart. Many of them probably never knew what an impact they had. They’ll never know how their words still bring me courage, how memories of them make me smile, and how, even though we walk different paths now, I carry them with me. And always will, because someone who prioritizes connection and authenticity, invests completely, sees the real you, and doesn’t turn away…is very precious.

They can turn time in to treasure, by just walking along side you.

The steadfast friend who’s loyalty keeps you grounded (pets count too!).
The courageous parent who grows along with their children.
The humble teacher who learns from their students.
A found family who sticks closer than a brother.
The wise leader who grows with their team.
Siblings who cheer for each other as they mark each milestone.
And partnerships that honor differences and finds balance together.

Here’s to personal growth – and those who hold on to us throughout our journey.
Let’s grow together!