And ... that's a wrap for us at FGS! This is our final story for 2022. I felt all this pressure to make it a really good one, but there were so many other hysterical stories this past year so I talked myself down from the ledge.

What Scott and I would like to say is how grateful we are. We have had many ups and downs this past year. We have gained amazing new people and said goodbye to amazing people. Change is inevitable in our world and learning to roll with change is key. It's not always comfortable, but because we are surrounded by such an amazing group of people, everyone perseveres together.

This past week, we had our company holiday breakfast. Scott and I committed to making breakfast for 50. I know, right? LOL. It was a good time on Sunday baking 10 pounds of bacon and cracking 4 dozen eggs. We laughed a lot, even when I ruined the gallon of homemade sausage gravy and had to start over at 5am the morning of the party! But what made it worth the effort was three specific things.

First, anytime we see the different divisions come together at one time makes us thankful. We round out this year with really great people. We always tell our clients we may not get it right every single time but we do give 110%. If anything goes wrong, it isn't because of bad intentions. From the Leadership Team all the way to the goats, chickens and ducks, it takes a village to make FGS work. Yes, even the animals are part of our story and let's be honest... they are probably the most liked by everyone - especially Tripod, our little three-legged favorite goat!

Second, we recently hired Ryan. He moved into the Triangle area and is new to FGS. Ryan wanted to speak to the Landscape Installation crew after the party. I wish I had recorded it. It was one of the most encouraging and moving moments for everyone. He loves his team. He loves working with every single one of them and it is the team that has made him feel at home, find friendships and experience joy in coming to work. This is such a win not only for him but literally for everyone at FGS. Afterwards, Scott said to me, "If Ryan wants to go and give speeches as our Champion of FGS culture, I'm cool with that!"

And last, as we watch the final Christmas trees roll out, we smile. Not because we are laughing at the literal last minute shoppers and procrastinators putting up their tree, but because FGS plays a part in bringing green home. Allowing us to serve you, our customers, makes it worthwhile. From the Garden Center to Landscape Design/Installation or serving you through our Lawn Maintenance team, there has been a lot of joy in what we do. Even on the "bad" days, there is always something to be grateful for. Thank you for allowing our team to be a small part of your world and we truly wish you and your family a beautiful holiday season and a Happy New Year. We can't wait to see what 2023 has in store and by golly, we will take in stride with a plant in hand!

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If email newsletters aren't really your thing but you want to stay up-to-date on what's happening at FGS, join our text club! You can expect one text per week with exclusive offers, reminders about upcoming events and classes & workshops, and updates on discounts and new arrivals! You can opt out any time.

Sign up and receive a one-time use coupon for $10 off a $30+ purchase! Scan the QR code or text "FGS" to 833-429-0634 to opt in.

The cool, curvy branches give this tree a spectacular winter interest. 'Red Dragon' is a moderately vigorous, purple-leaved selection of European hazelnut that will reach around 6' tall with an equal spread in 10 years. The foliage emerges in spring a dark burgundy to maroon color, and maintains this deeply saturated tone through summer.

Fee is $25/person; includes a honey-sweetened, lavender lemonade mimosa

CLICK HERE to see the full job descriptions and apply!

We want to help you create the outdoor living space you've been dreaming about. Our in-house designers are ready to guide you through the process, and we have availability for installation after the New Year.

You'll be able to relax and enjoy your updated space this summer. Whether it's a patio, walkway, dry creek bed, retaining wall, firepit, raised garden beds, or something else, we're here to get it done and get it done right!

If you love us as much as we love you, could you take the time to leave us a review? We really appreciate it! If you can't leave us a great review, please let us know why. We love your feedback! THANK YOU!

We post daily to Instagram @fgsdurham (Garden Center) and @fgslandscapes (Landscape and Lawn Maintenance) and Facebook to keep you up to speed with what we're up to, what's in stock, and all the fun we're having!