Hola,
We made it through January, and we are nearly halfway through February. Very close to the day centred around love, Valentine's Day, the day of love, which is ironic when you look at its origins. It began as a Christian celebration to celebrate the life and death of Saint Valentine of Rome, who was executed under Roman rule for helping persecuted Christians. It's said that he sent the first Valentine to a jailer's daughter, a note signed "from your Valentine."
But the roots go even deeper. Valentine’s Day can also be traced back to Lupercalia, a Roman fertility festival in which women were paired with men by lottery. As Christianity spread and the church sought to replace pagan traditions, the celebration evolved. By the 14th and 15th centuries, it became associated with courtly love, and by the 18th century, couples were expressing affection with cards, flowers, and chocolates.
I used to adore cut flowers; I bought them for myself almost weekly, until I discovered houseplants, and my love for nature deepened. Now I much prefer a plant. With proper care, it lasts far longer and blooms beautifully. Miniature rose bushes can thrive indoors for a while (though they prefer the outdoors). Anthuriums have heart‑shaped flowers in a range of colours. Orchids are stunning, and some are even scented. You don’t have to choose flowering plants at all; tradescantia, aglaonema, and so many others have incredible foliage. There are even plenty of heart‑shaped leaves, like the lovely string of hearts… though I’d be reluctant to receive that one as a gift, because I only ever want one heart.
Of course, you’re not limited to houseplants. There are countless garden plants, trees, and shrubs that make beautiful, meaningful gifts for a loved one. Or, if you prefer something a little different, you could choose one of our latest creations: a handmade greeting card that includes a seed bomb and planting instructions. This is a new joint venture I recently set up with my sister‑in‑law, and our current range is called “Watch Our Love Bloom.” I’ll pop the link to the Facebook page below so you can take a look.
Botanical Blooms Cards | Facebook
I will just add that Outdoor gifts don’t just make thoughtful presents, they actively support the ecosystem. When you choose a garden plant, tree, or shrub as a gift, you’re giving something that contributes to the world around it. Trees and shrubs provide food and shelter for birds, insects, and pollinators. Flowering plants support bees and butterflies, helping to strengthen local biodiversity. Even a single well‑chosen plant can improve soil health, stabilise the ground, and create a tiny pocket of habitat. It’s a gift that keeps giving, not only to the person receiving it, but to the earth itself.
My youngest son recently gave me an orchid and a lucky bamboo; he’s so thoughtful, and honestly, I could probably do with the luck. If you follow my socials, you’ll have noticed I’ve switched things up lately: a morning post with a little inspiration tied to the plant, and an evening reel with the practical info. I hope you’re enjoying it as much as I am.
My life is still difficult right now, but I’m getting through it by relating my journey to nature, as always. I’m currently on a three‑week course with daily tasks: posting daily across all my social media channels, updating my online store, upgrading my membership site to include this new style of content in greater depth, and still selling my remaining belongings. It’s a lot, but it’s movement, growth, and renewal, and I’m grateful for it.
Please feel free to check out my online store and let me know what you think of the latest changes I’ve made. Plantlife Joy - Payhip
Anyway, I have things to do, so I’d better get on with them. I hope you’re all well.
Muchos love x