Cindy Wilson’s residence on Butterfly Lane has become more than just a home; it’s a sanctuary for her community. After retiring, Wilson transformed her property into a floral retreat, inviting guests to explore her extensive garden, collect flowers, and create bouquets without any cost.
Initially, Wilson intended to sell her blooms. However, when her neighborhood faced wildfires and flooding, she realized the true worth of her flowers lay in giving them away. She welcomed those affected to pick flowers, hoping to offer “a bit of kindness and maybe a little joy,” she explained.
Now, Wilson hosts weekly “you pick” gatherings from late June to early September, with the season’s first event dedicated to neighbors, acknowledging how her journey began.
A Journey Rooted in Gardening
Wilson’s home, nestled under the San Francisco Peaks, features a garden adorned with hand-painted signs. After her retirement in 2021, she sought a fulfilling pastime. Having volunteered at a florist, she was inspired to share the joy of flowers, eventually cultivating her own garden with guidance from social media sources.
Despite facing natural disasters that forced evacuations and caused destruction nearby, Wilson’s property remained unharmed. Her inaugural “you pick” event reached out to communities like Doney Park and Timberline, areas impacted by these events.
A Bell Signals Picking Time
Mary Walton, a long-time neighbor, has witnessed the garden’s positive impact over the years. “I’ve watched her grow every single one of these flowers from a little seed,” Walton noted, describing the transformation into a “secret garden.”
The garden bell, often rung by enthusiastic children, signals when it’s time to pick flowers. This simple act has become a cherished tradition in the neighborhood.
A Garden with a Greater Purpose
The Garden House on Butterfly Lane, as Wilson calls it, has become a community fixture. Events are supported by neighbors and advertised on social media, attracting a diverse crowd, including families, students, and travelers. Wilson remarked, “I’ve opened six times this year to have people come out. That’s a lot for me.”
Visitors are welcomed with shears and baskets, with instructions to cut low and choose 15 stems. Although donations are optional, they help maintain the garden’s beauty.
Embracing Nature’s Simple Joys
As fall approaches, Wilson prepares her garden for winter, planning for the next bloom. She encourages others to “take the time to go outside,” emphasizing the importance of connecting with nature through simple acts like picking a flower.
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