Photo by AS Photography

April 2025 Editor's Note: City Roots

April 2025

by Stephanie Toews, Executive Editor

"A garden requires patient labor and attention. Plants do not grow merely to satisfy ambitions or to

fulfill good intentions. They thrive because someone expended effort on them."

-LIBERTY HYDE BAILEY

Last month, I started reading Let Them by Mel Robbins, and it’s been a perspective-shifting experience. A dear friend gifted it to me, and I can already tell it’s one of those books that sticks with you. The concept is simple yet powerful: let go of trying to control others and instead focus on what we can control, our own lives, thoughts, and actions.

I’m realizing just how much of my peace has been tied to things completely outside my control. Can you relate? Our partners, children, coworkers, family, and friends, we can’t control any of them. The best way to love others is to show up authentically, lead by example, and offer empathy and encouragement without carrying the weight of their choices. True freedom comes when we allow people to be who they are while we fully embrace the one precious life we have. Peace comes through surrender.

Like people, nature can’t be forced to thrive. It requires the right conditions sunshine, rich soil, moisture, and even seasons of rest before it blossoms in its own time. Growth happens beneath the surface long before we see the first signs. As April arrives with its cleansing rains and the first hints of green breaking through the earth, we’re reminded that true growth comes from nurturing, not forcing.

This issue is brimming with inspiration to help you embrace the season with open arms. Our Celebrations Guide is here to help you plan everything from birthdays to graduations, making milestones even more special. For those eager to dig into spring, our Meet the Gardener feature highlights local green thumb, Monet Bjerken, sharing wisdom on cultivating exotic plants. If you're looking for ways to get outside, Breaking the Barriers to Outdoor Adventure will inspire you to explore with confidence. We also dive into composting, an easy and impactful way to give back to the earth, and, of course, we celebrate the joy of Easter, a time of renewal, hope, and connection, with our Worship Guide.

So, as we step into this new season, let’s lean into growth, gratitude, and the beauty of allowing things, and people, to flourish in their own time. Here’s to a spring full of fresh starts and meaningful moments!

Happy Easter!

Love,

Originally printed in the April 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Read this article in the digital issue of Simply Local here!

Stephanie Toews

Stephanie is finding joy in the journey of faith, marriage, motherhood, and friendships. Writing is her therapy and one of her favorite creative outlets.

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