Weekly News, 09.30.25
In recent weeks, the word heavy keeps coming to mind. I try not to get lost in doomscrolling and instead spend just a few minutes each day with carefully chosen news sources—enough to stay responsibly informed without carrying the entire weight of the world. I don’t think we’re meant, or even expected, to.
That’s where the serenity prayer resonates with me. I ask for wisdom: what can I control, how can I respond, and where should my time and energy go?
Like you, I’ve faced hardship and loss. Through it, I’ve learned to focus on three things:
- Holding on to hope in a good God who will ultimately make all things right.
- Purposefully noticing what is good and beautiful around me.
- Doing my best to love others well, starting at home with my family.
When I keep these at the center, even the simplest moments feel sweeter—car rides to dance class, admiring new plants with coworkers, a good cup of tea, or standing in the sun watering flowers. Life’s daily gifts are worth savoring.
Our family’s loss of our daughter Julia six years ago shaped this perspective deeply. She was born into heaven at eight months’ gestation, and in her memory, Russ and I created the Landscape for Love giveaway. October feels like the right time—it’s both Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and Julia’s birthday month. If your family has walked through a similar journey, you may find comfort in the remembrance event at Jefferson Memorial later this month.
At Bedner’s, our greatest hope is to help you experience joy—through plants, landscapes, and gatherings here at the garden center. This Saturday, I’m especially excited for our Sips & Sounds Concert (11–3pm in the Wine Garden). Live music, friends, and the beauty of fall always lift the spirit. While you’re here, don’t miss our sunflower photo op and mini corn maze for kids!
How can we serve your gardening dreams better this fall? Let us know. And if there’s a special plant you’re wishing for next spring, share it—we’re placing orders now, and would love to grow it for you.
With gratitude,
Melanie has been with the family garden center business since 1999, gaining hands-on experience in nearly every aspect–from cashiering and greenhouse production to bookkeeping, perennial buying, marketing, and store management. Now serving as Finance and Marketing Director, she combines her expertise with a passion for growing the business. She and her husband, Russ, have loved seeing how plants, gardening, and beautiful landscapes bring joy to our community.
