09/16/2026
I’ve got to brag on this young man!
After visiting the Dewey FFA class and sharing a few pointers with the students about their floral arrangements, I received a message from his dad letting me know that he won Grand Champion at the Washington County Free Fair! I am so incredibly proud. This is exactly why I love teaching the next generation.
But my proudest moment came when his mom told me they were sitting in a lobby and he noticed a faux ficus tree that needed to be fluffed and readjusted—and she agreed! That tells me he is already developing an eye for balance and dimension.
I remember learning about color theory, dimension, and balance and how it completely changed the way I saw art and understood design. It unlocked an entire world for me—one I thank God every day that I get to be a part of.
Knowing this young man has gained a new skill makes me so excited to see what he creates next. Even if his future isn’t in floral design, an eye for color, balance, and dimension can be used in so many different trades and creative fields.
Congratulations, Grand Champion! Keep creating—I can’t wait to see where this takes you!
