This morning, our wonderful office manager Vicki, shared the most touching story with me and I had to blog about it.

had recently taken her daughter and her friend on a birthday trip to Galveston and stayed and the Moody Gardens Hotel. For those of you out of state, Galveston is the most well known beach community for Houstonians. Vicki popped into the gift shop at the hotel and it was a slow day in the store. The lady working the counter begins to talk at length about her life, and the things affecting it, with Vicki. She goes on about how Hurricane Ike, that struck in late summer of 2009, had left half of her home still uninhabitable. Her husband was suffering with a terminal brain disorder and they were struggling through that together. I'm not surprised at this woman's ease of sharing her trials with Vicki, as anyone who knows her is drawn to a compassionate light that she radiates. Vicki listened and they both acknowledged how their faith keeps them strong in times of challenge. Vicki left, but returned later to purchase an item, since she felt she all but knew everything about this woman. When she returned, the woman who ran the shop asked, "I went on and on about myself, but what do you do?" Vicki told the woman she worked for Nelson Plant Food, and her expression lifted. "You make NurtiStar?! I LOVE your NutriStar Plumeria food! I get gorgeous Plumeria's feeding it and swear by it!" Before Hurrican Ike, she had tons of Plumerias and was in the process of restoring her garden. The lady was also very involved in the local Plumeria society and shares her "secret" with anyone who loves the flower. When Vicki returned, she sent the lady a card, expressing her thanks for sharing her story, supporting our products, and all the best with her husband and home. She also sent her a jar of her favorite fertilizer, NutriStar Plumeria. In return, Vicki's new friend sent her pictures of her prize worthy Plumerias.

It may sound a bit simple minded, but sometimes the smallest things, such as a flower someone loves, the way it makes them smile and puts them into a joyous mood, reminds us that it's not just fertilizer we make and sell. It's a feeling that those plants provide when they are at their best. A break from the stress and day-to-day struggles. A sweet smell...a soft texture...a beautiful backdrop. This encounter was a reminder to be appreciative for the things we have and take comfort in even the smallest of joys.