I’m the flower guru behind Simply Beautiful Floral Company, but not so long ago, my world was all about lesson plans, not planters. I loved molding young minds and guiding teachers, but my heart always skipped a beat for blooms and bouquets.

Then came the big switch. I said goodbye to the world of education and hello to a charming if slightly worn-down, flower shop in East Texas. A bit of a wild pivot? Sure, but sometimes life's best decisions are the floral-patterned paths less traveled.

Nowadays, you'll find me amidst petals and stems, reveling in my awards (which, trust me, are as surprising to me as to anyone), and still not a fan of early mornings (please, no conversations before coffee). It's a life filled with family, laughter, our cat Holly (the real queen of the household), and, of course, lots and lots of coffee.

So there you have it, my journey from chalkboards to chalky soil, a testament to following your passions, even if they lead you down a path lined with roses (and the occasional thorn).