Michelle’s Chaos

At the Compassionate Roots house, there are now seven raised garden beds managed by individual therapists. Last year, we started with two and added five more, envisioning a unique space for each therapist to express themselves, work creatively with clients, and personalize their sessions (Eco-therapy!).

 It's been delightful to watch the unique gardening approaches, reflecting the varied backgrounds of our therapists. I'm particularly excited to highlight Michelle Rogowski's garden bed, my favorite.

Michelle joined us this past spring, and within days, she brought seeds she collected from the library, disco balls, a hummingbird feeder, and bright color plants. She enthusiastically shared her plan for 'chaos gardening' and spent an evening at the Compassionate Roots house throwing around chaos with a smile and admittedly hiding from the bees. Despite concerns that some plants were shade-loving, Michelle was undeterred, choosing them for their appearance and the happiness they brought her (nature's natural dopamine!).

Watching her garden bed evolve has been a joy, and I've enjoyed capturing its progress (nature's gift of mindfulness). Michelle's garden bed, bursting with vivid colors and flourishing shade-loving plants, is a dazzling display that mirrors her joyous personality.

Although it was never a contest, if it were, Michelle would undoubtedly win for the most beautiful garden bed.

Mary Ridley — August 30, 2024