Inspiration #1: Reed Franklin

K. Reeder Franklin, a photo by Pike-uliar Gardenings on Flickr.

This weekend, I attended a memorial service for my cousin, Reed Franklin. Reed passed away this past Fall and I miss him deeply. Reed inspired me in so many ways, but I will focus on only one here. I looked up to Reed a great deal and one Summer, he worked at Sweet Briar College's Greenhouse. His boss was Sally Boley, a very kind soul. Watching Reed's intent interest and concern for growing things had a profound impact on me. I think my interest in plants began then and, like many things inspired by Reed, it has stayed with me my whole life and has been a source of constant enrichment. Without Reed, I would not be who I am today. Thank you so much, Reed.