An Exciting Transformation

I have been the rector of All Saints Episcopal Church, San Leandro, for just over nine years. Over the past year, an exciting transformation has taken place right in the front of our church. In February 2024, we had our front lawn completely removed and we planted a drought-friendly garden. It has been incredible watching this space transform into what is now a Certified Wildlife Habitat exploding with myriad colors, intricate patterns, and creature visitors both winged and four-legged. I have one regret: I wish I had blogged about the garden project from day one. I continue to oversee this operation and have been wooed by hummingbirds, Cupcake Cosmos, and the overwhelming wonder that can emerge from four inch plants in just one year's time. Here's just one glimpse of the transformation I am talking about: 

The change in perspective makes it look like we expanded the footprint of the space, but it's the same area. There have been miracles emerge from the soil, and daily wonders that I have sometimes shared on my Instagram account @microbotanica and also on the All Saints Facebook Page. But the transformation has been breathtaking to witness and be a part of: from when the lawn was rolled up and removed like a blanket, to the design, the laying of irrigation, the first planting, and the incredible growth over the past twelve months. Thankfully, I've taken photos along the way. And I want to share with you the journey that has led to this point, as well as post regularly about the latest happenings in the garden: what's in bloom, new arrivals (plants), plant identification, garden visitors (birds and otherwise), and other excitement. Be sure to subscribe and my next post will give you some of the background including some early photos from February 2024 and onwards. I look forward to sharing and delighting in this space with you all for years to come. 

Fr. Justin+ 3/31/3025