It’s all about Nature.*
My best friend is Nature*.
I thrive relating with Nature so I care-take gardens, hike trails, visit farms, explore parks, and swim in glacial lakes. Two of my favorite Nature retreats are climbing trees and walking hidden trails.
Nature delights my senses with its evolving beauty and nourishes my well-being with its vast array of life. Fresh from the garden, I make teas and tasty meals. Thanks to Nature’s abundance, there is enough to share with others.
Nature is my favorite teacher who communicates through small wonders when I pause to observe them. Nature provides insight and acceptance to my inner self. When I seek comfort and counsel, Nature is my refuge.
I thrive sharing the wonders of Nature with every age; and wish that every soul experiences a supportive, loving relationship 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. Eating fresh from the plant and picnicking. Creating art and writing. Learning, growing, sharing, and connecting with people, pets, and Nature.*