Bullington Gardens is blessed to have many wonderful volunteers who give their time, love and hard work in an effort to keep the gardens beautiful for our many visitors and students. This month we are highlighting Sandy Aycock as our Volunteer Hero.
How did you get involved with Bullington Gardens?
When we moved to Hendersonville from Center, Alabama, I was able to transfer my Master Gardener membership and found that Bullington Gardens is one of the MG projects that was closest to my home.
Why do you volunteer?
Volunteering has been an important part of my life since I was a child. When I was in college, I was the student director of Volunteer Kennesaw. Volunteering has such a positive impact on the mind-it reduces stress and makes people happy. It’s good therapy!
Why do you choose to donate your time at Bullington?
When I saw the gardens it was love at first sight! Then when I met the other volunteers, I felt welcome. Then when I learned that the mission of Bullington Gardens is to provide a place for children and adults of all capabilities to learn about plant science and our beautiful natural world, I was totally hooked! I love being a part of what Bullington Gardens represents.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering at Bullington Gardens?
There are so many interesting and diverse ways to be involved-from planting and caring for plants to welcoming guests to the Fairy Garden or making crafts for the annual sale. Each season has enjoyable tasks that the volunteers get to participate in-and feel a part of the overall experience. This last week I was washing pots-which proved to be a very satisfying activity-preparing the temporary “homes” for the new plant life. I love to watch the little plants grow-it’s something else to nurture.
What is a memorable moment about your work with us?
I feel like I discover something new every time I’m there-whether it’s a plant I had never noticed before, a new bloom, or seeing a project done by the students. There’s always a lot going on! I love going through the hoops and seeing one kind of plant growing. I like to “prink.”
What do you find most challenging about volunteering at Bullington Gardens?
Right now the most challenging part for me is not being able to get together. Our volunteer time is either alone or with only a small number of people. I miss the camaraderie!
What do you wish other people knew about Bullington Gardens?
Bullington Gardens is such a gem-there are so many opportunities to explore our natural world! It’s not only the beauty and wonder of the gardens, there are also informative classes and hiking trails. I’m also so impressed with the educational aspect, in particular, the opportunities for people with special needs. I wish everyone knew it is much more than the gardens.
When you are not volunteering, what are some of your hobbies or commitments? What did you do in your previous life?
I am a retired social worker. I started my career as a computer programmer, but found through volunteer work that social work was more satisfying so I went back to school to obtain my bachelors and MSW. My favorite hobby is quilting or anything involving fabric, and I also enjoy basketmaking, journal making, painting, doll making-and really anything crafty. I’ve never met a craft I didn’t like! My mom used to teach craft classes to the neighborhood kids. My sister and I have carried on the crafty tradition and make and sell crafts at craft fairs. I’m also learning to weave and am involved with the Heritage Weavers and Fiber Artists at the Historic Johnson Farm.
What would you tell someone who it thinking about volunteering at Bullington Gardens?
I would tell anyone thinking about volunteering to Just do it! Bullington Gardens us such a pleasant, restorative, welcoming environment-so wonderfully good for the heart and soul.
Learn gardening basics on how to improve soil, composting, what and when to plant, pest control measures and other techniques to get your vegetable garden off to a great start in this 3-day program. Led by John Murphy. ZOOM Class. March 16, 17, & 18th. 3:30-5:00.
Successfully grow and harvest tasty blueberries in your own home garden. Area Extension Specialized Agent Craig Mauney will share practices on getting blueberries established and growing well, how to prune, pest problems and which are the best varieties for our area. ZOOM class.
