As we transition from spring into summer, the Bay Area is blooming with colors! With the rainfall and a rush of cool weather back in mid-May, many roses are eager to show off their layers and pigments. They are not shy at all!

Excited to admire nature’s beauty, the Social Services Ministry brought our Women’s Support Group and Cancer Support Group to visit Filoli, located at Woodside, California. Filoli is a stunning estate that’s dreamlike. The history behind Filoli is also inspiring and meaningful to our clients.

Filoli was built between 1917 and 1929 by the Bourns, and was purchased in 1937 by Mr. and Mrs. William P. Roth for private use. In 1975, the Roths named the property “Filoli” and donated it to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, for future generations to enjoy and find inspiration in. “Filoli,” a name that combines the first two letters of fight, love, and live, represents the former owners’ belief in nature’s power and their philosophy of life. It encourages future generations to fight, love and live! This is the perfect message for our cancer and domestic violence survivors.

The entire property is now open to the public. The grounds consist of two parts: the family house, which served as the main living space, and the garden, where all recreational activities took place. Many antiques and the original furniture are still preserved in good condition. Acres of the garden are covered with fruit trees and bushes. A variety of flowers, including roses, daffodils, tulips, and wisteria bloom in different seasons.

The clients enjoyed the scenic garden and were amazed by the layout and decorations of the house. They constantly stopped to take pictures, capturing the home’s stylish decor. They took their time walking and relaxing in the garden as well. Surrounded by the warmth of the sun and a cool breeze, the clients chit-chatted with friends and simply cherished the precious time together. They focused on “here and now,” without worrying about the physical pain of cancer treatments and family violence. In that moment, there was peace and joy.

Every year, the June Outing is a special retreat for our Women’s Support Group and Cancer Support Group. It’s such an essential trip that gathers everyone together! We look forward to next year and sing “O to be in nature, the pigments and livelihood; O to share the most jubilant time ever!”