This past Christmas, I received a gift that I will treasure forever.

As the last of the presents were being unwrapped, my husband handed me one final gift. Curious and excited, I carefully peeled back the wrapping paper. When I saw what was inside, I gasped. It wasn’t just any gift—it was one filled with deep meaning and love.

Inside was a photograph of my mother, young and radiant, holding a flower in her hand. She looked more beautiful than ever. As I held the photo, flooded with memories, my husband softly said, “I got this for your shop, because she was the inspiration behind Les Fleurs. Hang it somewhere to remind you of why you do what you do every day, of your love for floral design—something that blossomed from watching her as a little girl, arranging flowers with such care and artistry. Now, she’ll be with you in the shop every day, watching over you.”

His words brought tears to my eyes. Sometimes, especially after a busy season at the shop, it’s easy to lose sight of your “why.” This thoughtful gift was the reminder I didn’t know I needed—of the gratitude I feel for this path and the deep connection it has to my mom.

I miss her terribly and often wonder what she’d think of the woman I’ve become. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t second-guess myself, asking, “would Mom do it this way?” But now, as I continue on this floral journey, I feel at peace knowing she’s by my side once again, if only in spirit.

Thank you to my dear husband for the most meaningful gift and to my older brother, who spent hours searching for this precious photo of our mom. This is, without a doubt, my most cherished Christmas gift.

XOXO,
Sandra

How it all began…

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