Roses & Roots

This week we introduced our theme—roses and their many colors, meanings, and moods—and already I feel the Grove shifting beneath my feet. The arrival of the Orange Rose Vireya opened something in me. Something creative. Something curious. And I realized, I want to capture that in my own life too—not just in the pages of a story.

So we took a day trip.

It started as something spontaneous—a drive with my husband and my brother. But the truth is, it was also something more. It was location scouting, because we’re moving soon. And we want land. Trees. Stillness. A place where the Grove can breathe.

The Grove isn’t just an idea—it’s becoming a place. Not just a digital space or a poetic dream. But something physical. Something you can walk into. Somewhere children can learn to plant, paint, cook, write, and feel.

We drove up Michigan’s thumb, stopping for hot dogs and laughter. My brother, always more reserved, let himself join the moment. He chose the dinner spot. He took part. And we felt something that only presence can create: belonging.

And on Easter, it was the same. We showed up. We brought gifts. We stayed rooted in the real world. I watched my niece and nephew and thought: this is why the Grove has to grow. Not just for the imagined future—but for the real children who need it now.

So no—Essence Grove™ won’t only live wherever we move. It won’t be bound by geography. But we are choosing our next home with the dream in mind.

We want to be ready to welcome you. To hold workshops. To grow food. To create joy. And to build what we wish we had.

One day, the Grove will have branches in many places. But first, we’re growing roots.

— Aunt C’Anna