Well folks, we made it to June, which means we're officially halfway through the year. Did anyone else blink and miss the last six months?

Now full disclosure, this week's newsletter story is brought to you by Lizzie, because Scott and Marsha have been whisked away to a magical (and hopefully relaxing) vacation to celebrate milestone anniversaries and birthdays and whatnot. We all hope they return safely, rested, and just a tad bit sunburnt. (Is it really a vacation if you don't get at least a little sunburnt?!)

With our fearless leaders getting some much-needed rest and the spring season winding down, the Garden Center has been a bit on the quiet side. However- there is one notable exception. These three ducks.

For the last two weeks, give or take a few days, these three ducks have been strutting the property like they own the place. Not super unusual, except that this tiny waddling gang has been trying to claim the front lawn of the offices as their new turf. While we agree the grass is beautiful we do prefer the ducks stay in their own territory.

During For Friday's Sake when the ducks were particularly stubborn about going back towards the lake, Doug decided to wrangle them back to the water. Luckily I snapped a photo because I thought it was hilarious. I don't get to interact with Doug as much day-to-day, so seeing him out of the office, chasing down three mischievous ducks, was a treat.

I've hit my one-year mark at FGS but to be honest I have never noticed the ducks being pushy (except when Sean goes on vacation... the animals all love Sean.) Then again, before the Waking April concert, Savvy had to wrangle the ducks back to the lake - but she had the idea to entice them with food. Not as funny of a photo op but definitely more effective. You know, come to think of it, maybe the ducks just don't like live music.

Unfortunately for them we have two amazing live music events in June, so if you'd like to meet these three waddling goofballs and enjoy the talent of local artists at the same time, make sure to check out the concert information (you can scroll down!!) Scott and Marsha will be back next week and I'm sure we'll get some more mischief going real soon.

Role: Head Plant Coach & Assistant for Annuals and Perennials

Started at FGS: March 2021

Favorite Plant: Serviceberry Tree & Coral Honeysuckle

Favorite Snack: Popsicle

Currently Watching: Any Disney movie with my children; favorite right now is Encanto!

Favorite Local Restaurant: NUVOTACO

This year, I'm looking forward to: Planting fall containers!

Thoughts, Theories, & Trivia: Walnuts are prehistoric, dating back to 7000 B.C.!

Pro tip: They're on sale! For the whole month of June,

Create an outdoor succulent bowl that requires very little maintenance but delivers a whole lotta love! It will be the perfect piece to brighten up your sunny outdoor living space.

Fee is $60/person; includes all necessary materials and a mimosa.

Doors Open at 5:30 PM

They're back at FGS! Local jazz band Peter Lamb and The Wolves will be performing for us once again on Saturday, June 11!

Peter Lamb and The Wolves have been serenading America since 2008, when they debuted at President Obama's Inaugural Ball. Since then, they've released three albums, been named Best Jazz Band in the Triangle twice, and won several awards - and our hearts!

The Potting Shed will be open and serving beverages and Sunset Slush, so come and enjoy the ambiance on the patio and take in the sunset.

Admission is free, so invite your friends, family, neighbors, first dates, and coworkers! Seating is limited - don't forget to bring a blanket or a lawn chair.

Instructor: Debbi Barrett, FGS Plant Coach

These positions are full-time, year-round, with benefits. CLICK HERE to see the full job descriptions and apply!

Need a beautiful paver patio? Steppers? Fresh and vibrant landscape or simply a vision for your home? Our designers love to turn your lawn and landscape into a gorgeous and usable outdoor space! Our team can take your outdoor living area to the next level. We have available appointments in July! Click here to submit an online request!

Love fresh veggies and herbs but have no place in your garden to plant these tasteful plants? Don't worry: many vegetables and herbs thrive in containers! With lots of fun, classy, and unique containers to choose from you'll be sure to find the perfect thing for your porch or deck!

If this is your first time making an edible container garden, we have some tips and tricks for choosing the perfect plants, soil, and materials in our blog post below. Oh, and don't forget our tomatoes are still 50% off!

If you love us as much as we love you, could you take the time to leave us a review? We would 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 the latest information about what we're up to, what's in stock, or all the fun we're having!