June 4, 2008

"Things we lost in the cyber..."




Maybe this is a strange blog, coming from me, the owner of an internet business! Still, the idea came to me this morning, a lovely, soft rain of one here on Cape Cod. I was thinking about how fulfilled having the gallery and gardens open is making me feel, and I realized it's because its something very tactile and tangible. People coming in, flowers blooming, laughter in the air. These are the highlights of my day! So yes, this is another blog about being grateful :),but it is also a 'note to self' to make sure I do everything I can to translate these 'real' feelings into our work as an internet business. It's not impossible! In fact, every one of us here has customers that although we've never met them, we feel like we 'know' because they have shared who they are with us, and vice versa! Deanne delights in hearing a hellooooooooooooooo from Patrick, and getting to talk to Rebecca. Laura just made a new friend in Oklahoma this morning. Kristen thinks Faith from Jeanine Payer is DA BOMB.. and I only need to think of Ellen, Tina, Jeremy in Singapore! to get all my smiles for the day.I hope Giving Tree is proof that even in this 'cyber world' we can still truly connect.
This picture is from the opening day party here. It is an original and totally green and organic work of art by our artist in residence Tessa D'Agostino. It is a woman, made of vines and wood, 'awakening'. The amazing picture was taken by our dear friend Rebecca Zarazan, who is an inspiration as an artist and a person. I chose it for this blog because this piece on our property feels like such a gift, and reminds me of what matters most.

May 17, 2008

With friends like these...



At 7 am this morning (A Saturday!) my good friend Stephen calls. He is ready to garden. Exsqueeze me?? And then I remember. It's t minus 7 days until the grand re-opening of Giving Tree Gardens! We are opening all 5 acres, including the rope bridge! the labyrinth! and the glass meditation garden! The focus has changed. This time, it is about community and charity. It is about giving back, and sharing our space, so as to remind people how beautiful (and precious and fragile) our natural world is. Did I mention it is pouring rain? Honestly, there is nothing I would rather be doing. I feel so alive, and so grateful. this is what it is all about. Really. I will report back later, but if anyone reading this is around next Saturday May 24th, come to our party! There will be food and drinks and lots of space to walk and be happy! We are inviting everyone to bring something to plant, or leave at Giving Tree to honor the earth, and each other. And if you meet Stephen, shake his hand. He is what being a friend is all about. xxx Rachel

May 13, 2008

Happy Happy Birthday Wishes to Laura!


Happy Birthday to Laura who celebrated last Friday! Her daughter
Ellen was even in the office that day, along with TWO yummy cakes...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!