As the days grow longer and the chill of winter begins to loosen its grip, it’s time to get our hands dirty and start planting. There’s something deeply satisfying about beginning the season in the greenhouse trays lined up, soil ready, seeds full of promise. Yes, it takes time and effort, and yes, it can be messy. But the reward is worth it. Every early start strengthens what’s to come, setting the stage for a garden that will flourish in the months ahead.
This spring feels especially meaningful as we prepare to use our greenhouse for our first full planting season. We’re excited about the possibility of growing a variety of beautiful hanging plants — a new venture for us. Rachel is especially looking forward to it (and will likely be the proud recipient of many of them!). For now, we’re learning what it takes, experimenting, and enjoying the process before diving in on a larger scale.
At the same time, another season has just come to a close hockey wrapped up over the weekend. Youth sports, like gardening, require commitment, patience, and resilience. But they also remind us that while teamwork and character are built in competition, challenges can arise when individuals lose sight of the bigger picture. It’s a reminder that perspective matters. Actions, words, and attitudes carry weight, and the way we show up affects more than just ourselves.
In contrast, tending plants feels grounding and restorative. Growth doesn’t come from conflict or ego it comes from steady care, intention, and a willingness to nurture something beyond ourselves. In many ways, the greenhouse offers a quiet lesson: when we focus on cultivating the right environment, healthy growth naturally follows.
As we step into this new planting season, we’re choosing to invest our time and energy into growth both in our gardens and in ourselves. Here’s to fresh starts, steady hands, and the beauty that comes from tending what truly matters.
Youth sports have a way of revealing character. In the most meaningful moments when the pressure is high, the score is close, or adversity strikes true character rises. It shows in encouragement from the stands, respect for officials, support for teammates, and grace in both victory and defeat.
Unfortunately, the opposite can also surface. Poor character often shows up at the wrong times in heated comments, misplaced blame, or actions driven by ego rather than example. While competition is healthy, it should never come at the expense of sportsmanship or the experience of the kids.
At the heart of youth sports are young athletes who simply want to play, grow, and enjoy the game. When adults lose sight of that, the purpose of sport can quickly become overshadowed. Our role as parents and supporters is not just to cheer, but to model composure, respect, and perspective.
The season may end, but the lessons remain. Character , good or bad, is always on display. The goal is to ensure that what shows up builds others up rather than tears them down.
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Craig Pierce
