Gardening in a War Zone | First Look

[@robinzuppan]

Alla and Her Family are in My Prayers 🙏🙏

[@rebeccazody1278]

Alla is such a brave and amazing woman. She will say she is doing what she must. Love and hugs to Alla

[@MariaJosefinaIbañezGuzman]

Thank you for sharing and cherishing the beauty and goodness of the world 🤍

[@TheWonFamily]

"Pressed, but unbroken," her last words in this video are just so beautiful and painfully true. Thank you for sharing her story.

[@ElderandOakFarm]

Yes, that was beautiful!

[@Katsimagination21]

What a beautiful person ❤ makes me be thankful for everything around me , and to remember what a privilege it is to live where I do and have the life I have

[@leilapujebet9047]

So beautiful and devastating! thanks Erin for sharing such an incredible courageous story!

[@upnorth21]

Wonderful introduction to Alla. Thank you for bringing her to us. Her seeds look beautiful in the packets. Looking forward to watching the rest.

[@8mbiker8]

The macro photography is amazing and the story is beautiful. Very moving

[@sandiludwig3018]

Oh Erin thank you for bringing us Alla!❤

[@soniakulchycky2238]

Thank you so much for sharing her story!!!!

[@rebekahcannon8391]

This is so hard and beautiful. Thank you for sharing her story. God speed!

[@mariiakovbasiuk3764]

Even after the darkest night, the sun will rise again. it is so strong, that people can find beauty even in the darkest days💙💛

[@sherrielea3005]

Flowers will survive and heal the world. 💐

Thanks for sharing! I am buying seeds from Ukraine for the last 3 years so I could help save those plants and help the growers

[@corifry1052]

I got my clematis seeds right after watching this mini doc. It was very moving. I think my seeds are stateside and on their way to me and I am so excited. Alla is lovely and I have corresponded with her a bit. I hope to stay in touch with her.

[@allisonmontgomery3992]

What a beautiful spirit, like a wildflower pushing through the rubble and distruction of ruins. May God bless her, and keep her safe as she continues to be a light in such darkness.

[@neverquit6542]

That short film is Lovely! It really makes you think.....

[@b.a.d.2086]

Beautiful and brave in every way! I will be purchasing a book for sure.

[@susanpiland9809]

Alla's resilience and the beauty she cultivates amidst adversity are truly inspiring. Her story touched my heart deeply as tears flow down my cheeks. Thank you for sharing this incredible glimpse into her life.

[@colette8694]

❤ I’m going to support her. Thank you 🌸

[@nicolazaina1386]

Beauty will prevail over the ugliness of war, something productive and creative will prevail over the destruction always. Alla the love and care you show for you flowers will find its way back to you.

[@Revsusu1]

Holding Love and Peace in my heart and mind for these beautiful people ❤❤❤❤❤

[@mistygeller3193]

Oh my goodness…. I am struggling to find any words here, I truly cannot explain how I feel but also feel like I have to say something… even just thank you. Thank you so very much for showing all of us the very real and human side of this truly horrific situation 😔 How this darling woman surrounds herself with love and beautiful is truly remarkable. She is so very humble and kind. God bless her and her family. I hope that through your sharing this, she she’s just how far her efforts are not only seen, but appreciated on so many levels.

[@TeresaMucha]

You are such a wonderful person for sharing this important story! Cannot wait for the full documentary…until then.❤

[@lorriesutherland6228]

Oh my gosh. So very touching.

[@lorrainedubois1630]

What she dosen't know is that she is extraordinary. She is a motivator, a ray of sunshine in a hellish landscape and her love permeates all she touches. She touches me.

[@MarianneOudeNijhuis]

Wow, what a beauty. ❤

[@gardentours]

'"Mesmerizing" is the right word for the photos she takes 🌷🌸👍🏼 I also hope that the world sees her and and what' she's doing 🎋🎋🎋

[@jenniferbrennan3229]

Oh my goodness, I had to dry my eyes before I could type this comment! This is so wonderful! Thank you for creating this and posting this. I will follow her and buy seed from her! "Pressed, but unbroken"

[@villanella]

omg, this is beautiful. thanks, for sharing her story, can't wait to see the film.

[@helenward9768]

Very inspiring & emotional story, Thankyou for sharing, am looking forward to the rest of the story ❤

[@julsg123]

Wow, thank you so much for sharing. My worries seem so trivial after watching this video and this is a reminder that we need to remember those that are struggling day to day for basic things like heat, food, etc.

[@jenn976]

Wow, can’t wait to see the whole film!

[@rhondaschenk5727]

Oh wow! What a beautiful video! I want to support her, thank you!

[@gcannistraci]

Just incredible. Alla is a bright light in a stormy night. You are important Alla!

[@audrascheel1264]

Thank you for bringing us this story! Powerful, beautiful, and UNBROKEN!

[@violaludemann8426]

Two days ago I purchased my climatis seeds and ebook from Alla . I have had this on my wanted-list ever since I found her account through you , Erin. And oh boy! I should have done it earlier! Alla's Climatis book is a master piece! It provides the most detailed and very informative explanations about everything around climates. As a non-English-nativ speaker it was very understandable and easy to read for me! While I was reading the book I could only think that Alla should have the support of the whole floral industry!!! Finding your documentary & seeing this short film makes me insanely happy! Thank you for sharing Alla & Thank you for providing the platform Erin!

[@ztag1p]

My heart is breaking, yet hopeful. With tears in my eyes, Alla, I am praying for you and for Ukraine. Keep pushing forward; keep seeing how beautiful this work that you are doing is. Do not lose hope.

[@Virginiaruff]

“…..motivate me to stay alive.” What a statement! For most of gardening is just for personal enjoyment. Alla, 🤗 💕

[@evehanlin]

Love you Alla 💕

[@francesmurray8615]

I am awed by Alla's strength. Thank you Erin for sharing her story.

[@judywoodworth2032]

Love God's grace and the story

[@kathybissett9666]

I look at her way of life as it exists now during this war and think of the hardship she endures, but yet finds beauty and hope in her garden. She is truly an inspiration and example of graciousness .

[@jodyglud4265]

I cried from the first moment of this. Alla is a beautiful soul and the love she shows for her seeds is heartwarming. It breaks my heart that she and her people are going through the war. I can't wait to watch the whole documentary. Alla is sharing her love of her flowers to the world, thanks to you Erin! My neighbor grows Clematis, and I will definitely be buying some seed for her to grow. I can't wait to watch the whole documentary. Thank you, Erin!!

[@gaellealafraiz8645]

Thank you, Erin, Alla, for who you are, and for all the seeds of light you plant ✨♥

[@heatherbriggs3437]

Alla you are amazing! Your hard work matters for your family and across the world. Don't let your amazing light dim. Your story brought me to tears- you matter.

[@KjessieEssue]

I'm crying and have so much gratitude for such a beautiful soul. Thanks for telling stories, they are so powerful. Good to see Rob too =)

[@KathrynJeanetteMusic]

This brought tears to my eyes, I am mesmerized by her delicate and intentional touch to each of her seeds. Really looking forward to hearing the rest of this story.

[@anniefroese]

Thank you Erin and Alla for sharing the beauty that is life in such turbulent times. I love flowers and gardens and believe that spending time with and in them brings healing. Looking forward to seeing the whole documentary.

[@cathymccall9846]

Beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time. Will we ever be able to stop crying? TY Ala...thank you Erin.

[@skinnursern5852]

I bet there is not a dry eye after watching this. Bravo ladies. You both make the world a much better place. Thank you.

[@sheilascott9001]

Thank you so much for sharing this. You bring so much beauty to everyone who follows you… God bless you and your family, your countrymen. May this war end soon!

[@dshollins5864]

Wow! Beautiful girl!

[@wendyhunt2504]

Thank you for sharing. “Pressed but unbroken “

[@mollydaniels9675]

Thank you for bringing this amazing story of strength and beauty.

[@ParadisoDesignsbyCherylKuczek]

Erin....your work is masterful in every way. I beg you to send this first look to Congress and the Senate so that the lawmakers can see what help to Ukraine means. I am so glad you found the amazing Alla, and thank-you for seeing she had an incredible story to tell, and you are telling it!

[@sunshinedunker3220]

"Pressed but unbroken". Isn't this the perfect description for living through our trials of our life on this earth? Thank you Alla so much for your example that speaks to the truth that we sometimes don't have control over what happens 'to' us, but what really matters not only to us, but to those learning from our example; is what we 'do' with the unspeakable actions of others. You have chosen to spread beauty among the ashes that others have created in your beautiful country! God blesses those of His children who uplift others through times of trouble! Thank you for blessing our lives in another part of the world! May you and your family prosper because of your great efforts to spread beauty and joy! Where can I buy your clematis seeds in Washington, USA?

[@sophiebuckmusic]

Wow! Alla has such a beautiful heart and resistant soul. Crying as I watch this

[@mackenziebrubaker7472]

You are an amazing person. You are such an inspiration to me! I will keep you, your family, and your country in my thoughts and prayers! Thank you for your encouragement 🙏 "we are hard pressed,but not broken " ❤ ❤

[@maialomidze9356]

Erin, thanks for sharing this story and supporting Ukraine. Dear Ala, I am sending you my warmth and love from Tbilisi, Georgia. spring is coming! Victory is coming! More flowers and glory to Ukraine! 💙💛

[@pitinannan]

so impress with this video thank you for sharing!

[@Bluebirdhouse]

So beautiful, I am weeping. Thank you, Ala, for your story, and thank you Erin for being her champion. I look forward to the full doc. ❤

[@roxanneroehrig324]

WOW😮!!! What an inspiring story of HOPE & RESILIENCE!!! Alla is obviously a very profound and loving woman who preserveres despite a horrific situation ! 😢 ! I sincerely pray she survives as she has so much to share and teach the world ❤!!!! Thank you, Erin, for showing we spoiled Americans how much we take for granted every moment of every day...humbling to say the least.

[@marybethgardener111]

Pressed, but unbroken indeed!

[@meihahnguyen1824]

OMG!!! Thank you so much for sharing, bringing her story to us!! Love hearing about her daily triumphs. BEAUTIFUL!!!

[@gloriacrawford6911]

This was beautifully done and so heartfelt. To see someone so far away and in such dire circumstances focused on the requirements of her garden is remarkable. To see how Alla supports her family, by meticulously gathering and labeling her seeds in the extreme weather and writing a book by candlelight shows a lot about her character and will to survive this war. I'm truly touched. Thank you so much, Erin for bringing this story to us.

[@JaneTrinidadHennes]

So much to learn here❤

[@sprusslac]

Wow. I am moved to tears. Her energy is so beautiful. And her story is incredibly inspiring. What a gift she is to this world during this time. And what a gift you are Erin in bringing her story to us.

[@ednajamison4531]

Truly very inspiring

[@LeighAnnHasley]

Well isn't this beautiful. Thank you for taking the time to share her story.

[@cindyrust6164]

Amazing! Thank you Erin for bringing Alla into view.

[@sweetearthco]

Wow, such a powerful and emotional story. Thank you Ala for all that you do to bring beauty into this world, and thank you Erin for sharing her story.

[@ElderandOakFarm]

I'm so thankful for people like you- that have a large platform, that you choose to show stories like this! You could bery well just keep it about yourself & your seeds, & never tell the backstory of your seeds... but you choose to let us see amazing & inspiring things such as this! 🥰🙏

[@betsymaltby6788]

Erin, thank you so much for using your platform to share Alla's inspirational story of resilience and how she is maintaining beauty even in her war torn country. It's so hard to imagine what life is like in a War Zone, but by telling this story you have opened our eyes to another perspective of the day to day struggles of the Ukrainians. We are praying for Alla, her family and all of Ukraine.

[@canuckab]

Thank you for bringing this poignantly beautiful story to light.

[@bluesky7226]

Truth and beauty will always prevail! God bless you.❤

[@agnieszkakowalska6352]

i cry watching this video ❤ warm words of support from Warsaw Poland, full of ukrainian refugees

[@Rich-Tracy]

Alla, your story is inspirational. So many things going on in our lives to fuss about. You demonstrate such strength and determination. ❤

[@beverlyfuchs3741]

What an amazing young woman. When so many would have just given up, she continues to find the positive in her garden. I do so admire her strength and courage to carry on. What an inspiration. I look forward to hearing more of this story.

[@valeriemoniz4139]

Wow, every film you and your team produces makes me cry somewhere because the message is so touching. Thank you Erin for all that you do! Flowers and beauty are IMPORTANT in our world! Blessings to you all. I look forward to the film and following Alla.

[@BuildAQuilt]

Is it not wonderful how small things like flowers can connect us all. What a lovely happenstance that you found Alla online, Erin. Alla, thank you for sharing your story and be safe. Wishing you both peace and joy.

[@marcydobbs1653]

Oh my. Pressed but unbroken. What an amazing outlook. We should all think that way through little struggles and big ones. Thank you for bringing gi g her to us.

[@thefrenchlaundress]

I am so glad I took the short time to watch this. I am not a crier. Tears are trickling as I type this. What a beautiful woman. What a devastating yet uplifting story. Thank you.

[@sashashu]

Thank you so much to Erin and the team for making this documentary and featuring Alla! I can't wait to see it! It means so much to me as a Ukrainian and a gardener. Gardening, planting, and growing flowers is about the future. When you sow a seed, you must have patience to reap the fruit of your labor. I planted peony roots this fall. I hope I'm alive and still have a country by the time they first bloom. So please, don't forget about us, pray about us, tell your friends about what is happening in Ukraine, and call and write to your representative. I hate asking for help, but the truth is, we are not strong enough to survive on our own. We need your help! All we want is to live on our land, speak our language, grow our families, work, and grow our gardens in peace. Thank you for your support!

[@trinamitchell3993]

Dear Erin, this is simply beautiful. Thank you

[@marlenenagycrawford]

This was an absolutely beautiful story! With a Ukranian background it was extra special to me. Thank you, for taking the time to share this story with the world! Sending Alla the warmest hug!

[@barbll000]

Wow! Thank you so much for opening our eyes to what it's like in a war zone country. Sitting in my peaceful country and gardening, planting the last of my daffodil bulbs I'm ashamed to say I have never thought of gardening, and having a gardening business in war time. My eyes are opened now and I'm grateful for that. I will absolutely support and follow her journey. Thanks Erin, et al for bringing this to our attention.

[@3in2Art]

Ala is a blessing to this earth and everyone involved with bringing her story to us are blessings as well! Thank you! 💐🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻🥰❤️

[@ruthd2261]

Oh my! I am moved to tears. Thank you for sharing Alla’s story. Powerful message. I sit here in quiet awe.

[@lizpease2544]

This was so beautiful, it brought tears to my eyes. What a beautiful heart she is! Would love to see more! God bless you and your family.

[@gailmajorpoole6443]

Absolutely beautiful! God bless her.🙏🏾

[@InTheGardenWithClaudia]

I loved hearing from Alla, what an amazing story. My husband’s family is from Ukraine and it hasn’t been easy, especially with family still there. Hearing from Alla felt like hearing from their home, truly wonderful. 🥰

[@thebeez6]

Wow!!! So touchingly beautiful! What a great story that needs to be shared! Thank you!

[@priscillagipson-huntley1842]

So very cool ❤

[@cynthiamillentree4886]

All I can say is "WoW" I see her and thank you for showing us "Alla" Beautiful! ♥

[@kathyschill9644]

Alla's story touched my heart. Thank you for sharing her amazing journey with us Erin! ❣

[@normag1344]

Such a beautiful story. I can’t wait to hear more.

[@amynelsongreen3243]

What a beautiful story and film. Looking forward to the full documentary and to follow you, Alla, going forward. Thanks so much to you both for sharing this story!

[@lailarezai1599]

Wow on every level. Thank you Erin for elevating the stories of people and especially a woman with so much soul, fortitude, love and beauty. I cried my eyes out into my breakfast and was so moved by Alla. Incredible that you two found each other. So beautiful.

[@Jay-jb8km]

Thank you for sharing Alla’s story. I think people are hungry for more stories like this. Lemon Tree Trust is an organization that helps people displaced by war to garden in their refugee camps, and they’d be a great partner in any effort to tell stories of gardeners seeking beauty and peace amidst war.