This Father’s Day, we honor the men who grow with us—fathers, mentors, stepdads, grandfathers, and those who show up not by chance, but by choice.
I believe the best gardens—and the best relationships—are nurtured with love, patience, and presence.
The first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington, thanks to Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her father—a Civil War veteran and devoted single dad. Inspired by Mother’s Day, she believed fathers deserved recognition too—for their strength, love, and quiet guidance. It wasn’t until 1972 that Father’s Day became an official U.S. holiday, signed into law by President Nixon.
More than a century later, we still celebrate not just fathers by blood, but father figures by choice—those who nurture, teach, and grow alongside us.
A Lesson in Gardening and Fatherhood
Like gardening, fatherhood is built on quiet consistency—showing up, tending to the unseen, and believing that care will eventually yield something beautiful.
The first Father’s Day began with a daughter’s desire to honor the man who showed up for her. That same spirit lives on in every dad who gets up early to pack a lunch, check on a child, or cultivate their confidence.
Both gardening and fatherhood teach us that:
- Growth takes time.
- There will be weeds, weather, and waiting.
- But with patience and presence, something extraordinary always takes root.
This Father’s Day, we honor all the men who have planted confidence, hope, and love in others—knowing that what we grow together becomes part of who we are.
Not All Fathers Are Fathers in the Traditional Sense
Some are stepdads. Some are mentors. Some are neighbors, grandpas, coaches, or friends.
What do they have in common? They show up.
Quietly. Consistently. Day after day.
And in showing up, they help something beautiful grow.
A Personal Reflection
I am blessed.
I have an amazing dad who has always been my north star—steady, loving, and wise. At 90, he’s still shining, still listening, still showing up for me in ways big and small.
And I’m doubly blessed to witness another kind of fatherhood up close.
Scott is a dad by choice. At 50, he chose to become a father to Madison and Jillian—not because he had to, but because his heart led him there. Raised by an incredible father himself, he carried those lessons forward: to love fully, to listen deeply, to lift others up, and to show up with unwavering presence.
Watching Scott love Jillian—with patience, joy, and fierce devotion—is a daily reminder that fatherhood isn’t about biology. It’s about being there. It’s about planting yourself beside someone and helping them grow.
Honoring Fathers of Children with Special Needs
All dads are special—but there’s a sacred space in the heart of the world for the dads of children with special needs.
These fathers show up with strength that’s quiet, love that’s fierce, and patience that runs deep. They learn new languages—of therapy, of advocacy, of resilience. They celebrate milestones others might miss and nurture not just their children, but entire ecosystems of care and hope.
They are gardeners of another kind:
- Planting seeds of courage.
- Harvesting joy in quiet moments.
- Showing us what unconditional love truly looks like.
Scott’s presence in Jillian’s life is a daily act of love. He chose her. He shows up. And in doing so, he reminds me that true fatherhood is defined by care, not chromosomes.
After Asking Our Gardenuity Community…
When we asked what they really wanted for Father’s Day, nine out of ten said one thing:
Time.
Time with the people they love.
Time to laugh, to be still, to grow something together.
Time away from screens and schedules.
Time to feel present.
Because the greatest gift isn’t something you wrap—it’s something you give.
And sometimes, the best memories are made in the garden—hands in the soil, hearts fully in the moment.
Grow Something in His Honor
Whether you’re remembering a father, thanking a mentor, or celebrating the man who chose to be there, planting a garden is a beautiful way to say thank you.
Plant:
- ? Basil for strength and renewal
- ? Mint for clarity and refreshment
- ? Tomatoes for sweetness and joy
- ? Or anything that reminds you of him
Because what we grow together becomes part of us.
Not every hero wears a title.
Some always have dirt under their nails and pruners near by.
This Father’s Day, let’s thank the ones who helped us grow—with love, intention, and a garden of gratitude.
