Jessie’s Favorite Moments of 2021

One thing we say around here is, “This/that was/is the best ever!” And it’s always true. It is the best ever only to be succeeded by the next time it is the best ever. Whether we are scouting our spring annual crops, perfecting our holiday presentation, or refining a process or procedure, it’s always the best ever. The best is what keeps me going.

The best moments for Tonkadale include inviting new customers into the greenhouse, strong and steady sales growth in all categories, unboxing new plants, growing the best plants, sourcing local pottery and product, selecting vintage finds, and dancing whenever possible while continuing to build a business that we can be proud of.

Reflecting on a year of bests, I can’t help but think about the people that got us here. And they (the people) are my favorite moments of 2021. As a business owner and leader, I have high expectations for myself and others. Progress, but not perfection. Leading, coaching, advising is not easy and is never done – I can always do it better, do it more often, do it with more empathy and attention. However, the best part is watching. Watching when that one thing clicks, watching as you let go, watching the team have fun together, give feedback, teach each other, and encourage. Watching as they serve and delight customers with their skills, talents, and interest, the knowledge they brought and the knowledge they have gained.

Okay, so you want me to be more specific.

January

Ice skating on a lake that was a clear and smooth as glass as the sun set to our East with a beautiful fire glowing in the solo stove on the beach.

February

Scoping out Bauer Brothers re-use center to hunt for new display pieces. This trip included 5 pendant lights, an old sink, and a beautiful art deco archway with two large columns and cabinets.

March

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine. What a relief for our staff, friends, family – now my kids are vaccinated too!

April

Our first big road trip to ski in Breckenridge, Colorado with my family. Breathtaking and exhilarating.

May

The Big Show. Color everywhere. The most beautiful geraniums I have ever seen.

June

A visit to Philadelphia to visit a vendor and two Terrain Garden stores. So much beauty and inspiration. Also, our employee summer party upon a chartered boat on the great lake of Minnetonka.

July

Our new puppy Zinnia the German Wire-Haired Pointing Griffon arrived! A visit to Cultivate where I was speaker on two panels – our industry’s biggest trade show and educational event.

August

My grandma passed away and it was beautiful. I got to hear her last breath and feel the last beat of her heart as she left this earth while surrounded by our entire family.

September

The kids are back in school after a year and a half of distance learning! A trip to Madison for the Badger football homecoming game where of course I invited myself to be interviewed on their local news station.

October

Meeting the son and daughter of the founder of Tonkadale – Bob Anderson who passed at the age of 101. He started Tonkadale in 1947 as an African violet breeder. 2022 will be our 75^th year!

November

Presenting on behalf of my Garden Retail peer group to the American Horticulture Board of Directors the opportunities, challenges, trends, and needs of the Independent Retail Garden Centers

December

Hands down the employee Holiday party. It was top secret. We took a party bus all the way to downtown Minneapolis to craft, and cocktail at Upstairs Circus. Highly recommend.

Cheers to a healthy and happy 2022. The best is yet to come.