It’s all about Nature*.
My best friend is Nature*.
For all of my life, I adore being in Nature.* I thrive gardening, hiking, visiting my family farm, as well as exploring parks and natural landscapes. Climbing trees and hidden trails are two favorite retreats.
As my teacher, Nature* communicates through small wonders when I pause to observe them. I receive insight and a supportive acceptance too. Nature* nourishes me with its plentiful fruits, leaves, seeds, roots, and barks. I treasure making teas and freshly harvested meals. Thanks to Nature’s abundance, there are always living gifts to share.
I thrive sharing the wonders of Nature* with kids and families; and wish that every soul has a heart-hugging experience with Nature.*
Michelle, the Garden Elf
*Nature is purposely capitalized.
“When we are in nature, we tune into our own nature.”
— Garden Elf Michelle
My Experience
Education
1992—WSU
Bachelor's Degree
Landscape Architecture & Horticulture.
1993—WSNLA
Certified Professional
Horticulturist and Nursery Person
1999—PlantAmnesty
Certified Professional Pruner
2018—Kidding Around Yoga
Certified Kids Yoga Teacher
Work
1975-1989
Lawn and garden maintenance. Mowing, weeding, planting, and watering.
1989-1999
Landscaping for nurseries and other companies such as Hendrikus.com and D.M. Ohashi Landscape Services.
established 1999
Garden Designz—providing plant, landscape, and garden services. Name is currently transitioning to The Garden Elf.
2018-Current
Within Our Nature—children’s outdoor adventures.
2018-Current
Teaching kids & family yoga
2019-Current
Kids’ outdoor programs and family outings and hikes.
Community
I have worked with children since 1980—coaching soccer, leading park adventures, and teaching kids yoga. I have taught horticulture (pruning, planting, and environmental studies) to youth and adults.
In 1992, I designed Stipek Park in Bothell.
In 1995, I created a non-profit—Friends of Bothell Parks—that supported the creation of Stipek, Cedar Grove, and Centennial Parks.
Volunteer, educational programs in 2017-18 for Friends of North Creek Forest.
Volunteer, 2020-today, in local neighborhood cleaning parks.
Passions
Gardening, hiking, and climbing trees. Resting under my willow tree canopy. Daydreaming. Making teas from fresh leaves, seeds, and roots. Drawing, music, singing, dancing, laughing, and story-telling. I love eating fresh from the plant and picnicking in the garden. Learning, growing, sharing, and connecting with people, pets, and nature.