A Good Finish to a Busy Week

After too short a time at the beach with my family, it was time to get back to work.  This past week was catch up time and as I found out, the best laid plans rarely come to pass.  That was certainly the case for me.

The week started out with major computer problems that took the better part of the day to resolve — at least to the point of being able to get online.  Losing a day of productivity in a week that is already over committed isn’t a great way to start out. 

Even with a company like mine that is all about gardening communication, there are many details that bog you down and can keep you from the best part of your work.  Thankfully, the week wrapped up nicely with the highlight being able to photograph in Ryan Gainey’s garden, an Atlanta- based garden designer, known and respected around the world.

I’ve been to Mr. Gainey’s garden many times now.  However, most of the time, it’s during a large garden tour and I am sharing the pathways with many dozens of people.  As beautiful as his garden is in a crowd, there is no substitute for having it all to yourself.

Such was the case this past Thursday.   Mr. Gainey was nice enough to allow me to show up at 6:45 am to shoot some photos I needed for the website and other business related matters.   I’m happiest in any garden at dawn but being in the midst of one of my all time favorites, with no one else around, still gives me goose bumps.   

What I thought would be a shoot of 90 minutes turned into a half day event as Mr. Gainey welcomed me into his home for some great conversation and a tour behind the scenes.  I was humbled by his horticultural knowledge and his gift for design. 

As with any real gardener, you never leave empty handed.  True to form, Mr. Gainey sent me home with several bags of transplants.   Somehow I get the strong feeling my garden will never compare to his but it is a thrill to have plants in it from memorable places and famous gardens.