“I’ve always been a farm girl at heart. I love digging in the dirt; it soothes my soul.”

I grew up in Baltimore in a row home—far from the countryside—but I was lucky enough to live on a corner lot, which meant we had more yard space than most. My mom was an avid gardener, always growing Maryland’s legendary tomatoes, beans, and strawberries. I owe my love of gardening to her.

In 2008, I started raising chickens in my small yard in Midtown Coeur d’Alene. Few people kept chickens within city limits, so I began blogging about my experiences in 2009. Backyard coops are everywhere today, and I still enjoy sharing the ups and downs of chicken-keeping.

Heirloom tomatoes are my true gardening passion. Knowing that a tomato in my garden could have been in Thomas Jefferson’s, there’s something magical about growing varieties with history. This passion turned into a seasonal business where I sell heirloom tomatoes, vegetables, and herbs through my online store.

I became a certified Idaho Master Gardener in 2017, fulfilling a long-time goal. Although I’d been gardening for years, the course taught me just how much more there is to learn! Now, through my consulting and coaching services, I help others grow successful gardens, sharing the joy and optimism of each season.  Read how one packet of tomato seeds launched my gardening business.

About Candace

Candace recently retired and closed Godwin Marketing Communications after a 35-year career in marketing.

She received a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness from the University of Idaho, with minors in advertising and journalism. Candace is also a certified Idaho Master Gardener through the University of Idaho Extension.