I grew up as a farm kid on a dairy farm in Northwest Wisconsin, and I greatly value hard work and time outdoors. Over the past 20 years, I have experimented with growing all sorts of vegetables and flowers wherever we have lived. It brings me great joy to nurture a delicate plant until it thrives and produces! Maybe that's also one of the reasons I enjoy being a foster parent and homeschooling. I enjoy a challenge because the celebration is so great on the other side! 

The bees joined our adventure in May of 2018 and it has been fascinating to watch and learn from them. They are tenacious creatures; patiently persisting through the seasons. Their resilience is inspiring and their honey is delicious! 

Unexpectedly, I discovered that as I nurture nature I reap countless benefits. Specifically, Jesus used this gardening and beekeeping journey as an avenue to mold, encourage, soothe, and heal my heart. The garden has become my personal sanctuary and an avenue to bond and connect with my kids and others. It has also opened the door for us to be generous in spontaneously gifting flower bouquets.  Through giving to others, I have seen the language of flowers connect and encourage. I am seen, I am valued, I am loved seems to fleet across people's faces as they accept the unexpected gift.

So, in September of 2023, Honey Bloom Haven was born as a space to grow and gift beauty and hope, as well as create a refuge for those in need of space to heal or process. May it become a haven for many; a place of safety and refuge. We pray that God uses our little slice of this earth as an encouraging refuge for the hurting, healing, and whole. 

Blessings,
Elizabeth