From Ranch Life to Recovery: My Journey in Gardening, Healing, and Faith

How Cultivating the Land Cultivated My Soul

I never would have guessed that the little girl collecting eggs on her family’s ranch in Montana would one day find herself in the heart of Dallas, Texas, growing food and medicinal herbs for a community. But looking back, every moment—the struggles, the lessons, and the blessings—has led me exactly where I am today.

The Seeds of Passion

My love for growing things started early. Summers on my family’s ranch were filled with endless green fields, the gentle nicker of horses, and the warmth of the sun shining down on what felt like an untouched paradise. Every morning, I’d run out to my aunt’s garden to pick fresh raspberries, marveling at the way they burst with flavor straight from the vine. Taking care of the animals was my responsibility, but it never felt like work—I cherished every moment spent feeding the horses, collecting eggs, and feeling connected to the land. As a teenager, my passion for horses only grew, and I even took it upon myself to care for my neighbor’s horses after school just for the joy of being around them.

Lost and Found in the City of Lights

Eventually, life pulled me in a different direction. The bright lights of Las Vegas, my hometown, were alluring, promising excitement and escape. But what I found instead was a struggle that nearly broke me. I became entangled in a world of addiction, seeking fulfillment in all the wrong places. I lost myself for a time, but by the grace of God, I found my way back. My recovery wasn’t easy, but it was necessary, and it shaped me into the person I am today.

During that chapter of my life, I started a cannabis edible business. I learned how to grow, extract, and infuse cannabis into oils and treats. But beyond that, I developed a deeper appreciation for plants and their natural healing properties. What started as a business venture led me to experiment with growing all kinds of plants—sweet peas, pumpkins, sunflowers, okra, and more. I’ll never forget the first time I realized I had accidentally grown 30 sunflowers and 20 pumpkins. The experience of having to thin out my plants—sacrificing some so that others could thrive—taught me a valuable lesson about growth, both in the garden and in life.

A New Purpose Rooted in Faith

Eventually, the cannabis industry became oversaturated, and I found myself searching for something more meaningful. That’s when I turned my focus toward medicinal herbs—plants that could help people struggling with mental health disorders, just as I had once struggled. Because of my background in plant cultivation and extraction, it was an easy transition to start making tinctures, teas, and oils from herbs known for their calming and healing properties.

At the same time, I never lost my love for growing food. While my passion for medicinal herbs is strong, nothing compares to the joy I feel when I see others nourished by the food I’ve grown. That’s why foodscaping—integrating edible plants into everyday landscapes—is such a big part of my journey.

Finding My Place in Dallas

In 2023, I met my husband online, and we made the decision that I would move to Dallas, Texas, to be with him. It was a leap of faith, but one that has brought so much fulfillment. We secured two plots at a community garden on our church’s property, and I began the challenge of learning how to grow in a completely new climate. That first year, I successfully grew luffas, zinnias, sacred datura, peppers, lavender, figs, tomatoes, and so much more. I also began building my seed bank through online trade groups, ensuring that I could cultivate the specific plants I needed for my business.

A Mission Beyond the Garden



Today, my journey is about more than just gardening—it’s about healing, faith, and purpose. I am currently studying to become an addiction counselor at a Christian university, hoping to use my own experiences to help others find freedom and redemption. I firmly believe that God placed gardening in my life as a tool for healing—not just for me, but for those I hope to serve.

Through this blog, I want to share my love for growing, my knowledge of medicinal plants, and my journey in faith. Whether you’re here to learn about gardening, seeking encouragement, or simply curious about how plants can heal, I hope you find something valuable in my story.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Let’s grow together!