When I was thirteen, I had a huge crush on a classmate, Sallie Baker. So I was excited to get an invitation from her to come over one cold, gray winter evening to study. I remember being clumsy, tongue-tied, fascinated by their Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home, and amazed by all the flowering plants in the Baker’s comfortable den. Sallie explained to me that her mom was a big fan of African violets, had been growing them for years, and that all the different-colored blooms were this particular flower’s. I’ve been a fan of African violets ever since. If you’re looking for a way to brighten your home on those gray days, you’re sure to enjoy Robyn’s article. It’s both a history and a how-to-grow piece. Read more…