Howell Garden Club

I finally found a good spot for my indoor plants. Thanks to Marlas Greiger for one and Donna McNatt Bainbridge for my Christmas cactus. My thumb is getting more green.

The Perennial Club (forgive me for the long post)

In 2020, in the middle of a divorce and just entering my 50s, I walked into the Howell Garden Club hoping to brush up on my gardening skills and find a little positivity in my life. I had no idea that stepping through those doors would become such a blessing.

A few of my friends jokingly asked, "Is there anyone your age?" The answer was, "Nope!" Most of the members are in their 70s and 80s. I have rarely felt so at home. These women are strong, talented, resilient, and truly beautiful. Don't let anyone convince you they're boring, they have some of the sharpest wit and best sense of humor you'll ever find.

I remember turning 50 and hearing one woman say, "As you age, you get used to being invisible." I've thought about those words many times, but I don't agree.

I've come to think of aging like the difference between annuals and perennials. Annuals are bright, fresh, and dazzling for a season. Please know, I don't mean that as a criticism of young people, they are beautiful and wonderfully sparkly.

However, perennials are something different. They are deeply rooted. They weather storms. They return season after season, often becoming even more beautiful with time. Some years they bloom abundantly. Other years they struggle, and their flowers are fewer or not as vibrant. Yet a patient gardener never gives up on them, because they know every season has its purpose.

These women have taught me that there is incredible beauty in resilience. They have become dear friends, and each holds a special place in my heart.

As I approach my 57th birthday, I simply want to say thank you. Thank you for your kindness, your laughter, your wisdom, and for making me feel that I belong. In this club, it doesn't matter what season of life you're in or how your blooms are doing. There is always a place for you.

I'm grateful to be part of the Perennial Club.

—Teresa

HGC's June meeting is tomorrow, June 24, at the Marion Township Hall on West C**n Lake Road at 6:30pm. Our program will be on Rain Gardens presented by Macey Kunkle of Huron-Clinton Metro Parks, Brighton, Michigan. We will learn how rain gardens work to solve local water problems.
Please come and join us for this most interesting topic!