It is difficult to write this week's column, as it is my last one. My official last day at University of Illinois Extension – Fulton County is January 16^th.

I am going to Springfield to serve as Associate Regional Director at Extension's West Central Regional office. It is with bittersweet feelings that I move on in my career. It is sad to leave you all, but I look forward to a new challenge which will allow me to use my education and experiences in a whole new way.

Over the past 8 ½ years, writing this column has been one of my favorite tasks. We have explored many horticultural topics together through this column and I have learned so much along the way.

Together we've explored lawn care, growing vegetables, flower maintenance, water gardens, and landscaping for wildlife. We learned about specific flowers including my favorites: lily-of-the-valley, poppies, jack-in-the-pulpit, and tropicals. We discovered new and old houseplants, such as Norfolk Island pine, Boston fern, Ti plant, Easter Lilies, and Poinsettias. We learned how to grow sprouts and herbs indoors and how to start seeds indoors in the spring. We now know where various "spirits" come from and more about spices, coffee, and sugar.

My favorite articles are the ones that discuss how plants help us live better and healthier lives. This is the message I leave you in my last column.

Plants are an essential part of our lives. They provide oxygen for us to breath. They provide beauty and enhance our environment. They help relieve stress and provide psychological benefits. Gardening is a satisfying hobby. Research at the University of Illinois, NASA, and others prove the benefits of plants to humans.

Have you ever noticed how people choose seats next to plants when given a choice in malls or parks? Our world is busy and we are constantly bombarded with noise, movement, and chaos. Plants help relax us. Because of their simplicity, plants or natural scenes reduce physical and mental excitement and improve our health.

In my absence, University of Illinois Extension – Fulton County will continue to offer horticultural support for the residents of Fulton County. Inquiries are answered by a variety of educated personnel including 24 Master Gardeners and statewide Extension Educators and Specialists. The office has access to a digital diagnosis system. New to the county is Julia Pryor who will coordinate horticultural programs.

I look forward to working with the Fulton County Extension office in a new way as they "Put Knowledge to Work" in Fulton County. Happy Gardening!