Volunteer? Almost a year….

Doing what you love in life is the ultimate pursuit of fulfillment and contentment.

When you engage in activities that ignite your passion and resonate with your interests, every moment becomes infused with purpose and joy. Whether it’s pursuing a career, engaging in hobbies, or nurturing relationships, following your passions brings a sense of authenticity and meaning to your existence. It allows you to tap into your creativity, talents, and unique abilities, fostering personal growth and self-discovery along the way. Moreover, when you do what you love, challenges become opportunities for growth rather than obstacles, as your enthusiasm fuels perseverance and determination. Ultimately, embracing your passions and pursuing what brings you joy not only enriches your own life but also radiates positivity and inspiration to those around you, creating a ripple effect of fulfillment and happiness.

My journey volunteering my time at the breathtaking High Point University botanical gardens and conservatory began almost one year ago. During the bare winter of 2023 I was looking for something. Being a stay at home dad, and working on my own designing digital content; had left me wanting more. I always loved being part of a team, working for ProtonMedia right out of college was such an exciting time in my life. I missed the career I had left, and I wanted to work with others and do something else I loved. My parents had instilled a love of gardening, which grew into a passion when I finally had my own spaces to design and fill with life. My father enjoyed working with Bonsai, and has transformed his Doctor’s office property into a decades old japanese garden. My mother designed her dream home, and her and my father landscaped a woodland garden, a constant labor of love for them to this day.

Transplanted in North Carolina from Southern New England opened a whole new world of gardening for me. Longer seasons, new plants, new deer…more about that in another post. My first visit to High Point University was eye opening, as it is for many people. The campus is old and new, and going through an incredible transformation. Vast new facilities are always popping up; but what I loved the most was the botanical gardens and the Caine Conservatory. Large collections of plants, and a meticulously manicured campus make the campus an amazing place to visit, let alone be a student. So as soon as I saw an post on Facebook through Keep High Point Beautiful offering their first community volunteer positions, I jumped at the chance to be a part of such a great school. I work alongside other community volunteers, as well as student volunteers. The team of HPU faculty have been nothing short of amazing. Interacting with other passionate plant nerds is a wonderful way to grow and learn. Volunteering continues to be a rewarding experience. Just recently I participated in parents weekend in the Caine Conservatory as a Conservatory Ambassador. Showing off the space and spilling plant nerd babble was just as much fun as it sounds…well to me anyway!

Being a plant nerd is a delightful journey immersed in the verdant world of flora, where every leaf, bloom, and stem holds fascination and wonder. It’s a passion that goes beyond mere appreciation; it’s a deep-rooted love affair with botanical beauty and the intricate workings of nature. From meticulously tending to houseplants to exploring the biodiversity of forests and gardens, being a plant nerd involves an insatiable curiosity and an eagerness to learn about different species, their habitats, and their ecological significance. It’s about geeking out over the latest plant trends, eagerly swapping propagation tips, and joyfully spending hours lost in botanical literature. Being a plant nerd isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that fosters connection with the earth, cultivates mindfulness, and instills a profound appreciation for the awe-inspiring complexity of the plant kingdom.

Tell me more about your project

My mission is to create digital landscapes that not only meet but exceed expectations. I invite you to explore my portfolio and see how we can collaborate to bring your digital vision to life. Feel free to reach out—let’s turn your ideas into captivating digital realities!