Willow Morningsky became part of The Home Project through one of those small moments of unexpected synchronicity. While another participant was being photographed in Lithia Park, she wandered over and asked what was happening. When we playfully responded that all of us had been waiting for her to show up so we could take her portrait, she laughed and immediately joined in the fun. What followed was a brief but memorable exchange that highlights the unexpected connections that can emerge when people remain curious and open to new possibilities.

During our conversation, Willow spoke about a life shaped by creativity, education, and inquisitiveness. In her career, she spent many years creating educational films and learning materials for elementary schools. Her mother was an English teacher, and there was a clear thread of storytelling and lifelong learning woven through the way she reflected on her experiences. She spoke fondly about the projects she created and the joy of doing work that mattered to her.

Now in her eighties, with a twinkle in her eye, Willow talks about aging with candor, willingness, and practicality. The conversation wandered from photography to retirement, missing teeth, and the rising cost of healthcare. Looking back, she acknowledged that spending a lifetime pursuing meaningful work did not necessarily translate into financial security later in life. Rather than dwelling on disappointment, she has met many of these realities with a lighthearted shrug, returning more than once to the phrase, “What are you gonna do?” 

What lingered after our conversation was her sense of openness and wonder. Willow appeared comfortable following unexpected paths in life, wherever they might lead. She shared her belief that plants communicate in ways most people overlook; they are always there signaling to us if we take the time to listen. Her participation in the project lasted only a short moment, yet her verve left a lasting impression.