Working on Vacation?

Last week was a Spring Break for the books. Usually our little family goes to the beach, or Disney or the mountains for Spring Break but this year we did something a little different for the week off of work and school. We worked. Yep, we had a week off and worked all week. And it wasn't easy. It was dirty. I didn't wear a stitch of makeup. My fingernails were caked with dirt the entire week. My back hurts. But it was really therapeutic.

My parents are going to be retiring after this year's greenhouse season and I was so happy to be a part of it for one last time. Reeves' Greenhouse was always a part of my life growing up. My parents bought it with no previous knowledge of the business when I was 4 and learned the business by getting their hands dirty- literally. I'm immensely proud of them and the amazing work they've done. Everyone who visits the greenhouse each year talks about how amazing the flowers are. The quality is amazing. It's all because of the hard work they put in. They work every single day most days from sun up until sun down and some days even longer. My mom's health has been an issue these last few years and I know she is so tired. I'm so happy they will be able to retire and get to enjoy this life they built.

My boys came along and filled dirt packs, carried flowers from one greenhouse to another, picked weeds, swept floors and just did whatever they were told. I was glad to see them getting to be a part of the greenhouse too. I hope they will remember it always. My Dad told them, see if you don't want to work this hard- make sure you do well in school. I would be happy either way- but don't tell them.

Even our oldest dog Saban made the trip. He is 15 years old so he is calm enough to just wander around the flowers begging the employees for food. He got plenty. You'll see a picture of him under the benches.

I spent most of my time transplanting flowers. To see a baby flower grow from something so small to something so big and beautiful is amazing. I won't be there to see the progress but I did bring home some beautiful baskets and planters to try and not kill at home. I didn't get the green thumb from my mom and dad but I do try!

I also got to eat a classic Wisconsin Fish fry with my family- visit with a couple of my oldest and dearest friends and spend time catching up with family friends who have worked at the greenhouse for years... so I call it a win.

It wasn't a usual vacation by any means and I'm a little sore and tired but I'm so glad I was able to do it and I will really miss Reeves' Greenhouse.