It’s all about nature.

I thrive in nature. I grew up playing on a farm, tending the garden, and exploring the nearby forest. My favorite pastime is climbing trees.

I thrive sharing the wonders of nature with kids and families.

Michelle, the Garden Elf

 
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“One who plants a garden, plants happiness. When we are in nature, we tune into our own nature.”

— Garden Elf Michelle

 

My Experience

 

Education

1992—WSU
Bachelor's Degree
Landscape Architecture & Horticulture.

1993—WSNLA
Certified Professional 
Horticulturist and Nursery Person

1999—PlantAmnesty
Certified Professional Pruner

2018—Kidding Around Yoga
Certified Kids Yoga Teacher

 

Work

1975-1989
Lawn and garden maintenance. Mowing, weeding, planting, and watering.

1989-1999
Landscaping for nurseries and other companies such as Hendrikus.com and D.M. Ohashi Landscape Services.

established 1999
Garden Designz—providing plant, landscape, and garden services. Name is currently transitioning to The Garden Elf.

2018-Current
Within Our Nature—children’s outdoor adventures.

2018-Current
Teaching kids & family yoga

2019-Current
Kids’ outdoor programs and family outings and hikes.

 

Community

I have worked with children since 1980—coaching soccer, leading park adventures, and teaching kids yoga. I have taught horticulture (pruning, planting, and environmental studies) to youth and adults.

In 1992, I designed Stipek Park in Bothell.

In 1995, I created a non-profit—Friends of Bothell Parks—that supported the creation of Stipek, Cedar Grove, and Centennial Parks.

Volunteer, educational programs in 2017-18 for Friends of North Creek Forest.


Passions

Gardening, hiking, and climbing trees. Resting in the garden. Daydreaming. Drawing, music, singing, dancing, laughing, and story-telling. I love eating fresh from the plant. Learning, growing, sharing, and connecting with people, pets, and nature.