Michelle Damiani’s passion for gardening began in childhood, nurtured by parents who made growing their own food a way of life. Daily chores in the family garden—planting, weeding, harvesting, and protecting crops from frost—instilled in her a deep appreciation for self-sustainability. Her mother’s dedication to canning everything from sauces to pickled vegetables ensured that their harvests lasted year-round, leaving a lasting impression that would later inspire her writing.

Though Michelle had always dreamed of writing a book in retirement, the unexpected circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic provided the perfect opportunity to turn that dream into reality. As she and her husband built a raised bed garden during lockdown, she realized she had the knowledge—and the passion—to create a gardening series. The process of researching and writing opened her eyes to how much there was still to learn, making the journey all the more rewarding.

Though their children have grown and moved into their own homes—only one carrying on the gardening tradition—Michelle and her husband continue to balance full-time careers with their many passions. Whether tending to her raised beds, exploring the great outdoors, or diving into research for her next book, Michelle embraces each day with curiosity and enthusiasm.