By Cari Gervin
Community News Writer
After 23 years of driving a school bus, it’s understandable that Joyce Blair would want a quiet and restful activity with which to pass her time.
Unfortunately she’s finding her new, post-retirement career not quite as relaxing as she expected.
“Nine times out of ten we have to work on weekends,” Ms. Blair sighed.
Since taking over All About Flowers from Cade and Shawn Williamson last December, Ms. Blair has discovered that running a florist next to a funeral home has its benefits (the walk-in business) and drawbacks (the weekend funerals that need flowers).
Ms. Blair runs the shop with her daughter Tammy L. Hanson. She said they have always played around arranging fresh and silk flowers.
“I just love doing it,” said Ms. Blair. “I don’t ever get tired of it.”
Ms. Hanson said she loves making all the deliveries because people get so happy when they receive flowers.
“When I go to the hospital, half the time it’s someone we know, and they just get so happy,” Ms. Hanson said. “Of course, half the time it’s someone we know at the funeral home too.”
All About Flowers offers a wide range of cut flowers, silk arrangements and plants. Arrangements can be made to order or chosen from the cooler. Ms. Blair said spring bouquets with brightly colored irises, daisies and lilies are very popular.
While the floral business may at times keep her up late or cause her to work on Sunday, Ms. Blair said it is still a nice change from driving a school bus.
“It is a lot quieter,” Ms. Blair said.
E-mail Cari Gervin at cgervin@tfpcommunitynews.com
All About Flowers, 8804-C Dayton Pk., 332-7076, is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30 to 12 p.m.
