Members of THE TOWN & COUNTRY GARDEN CLUB met on December 19 in the lovely home of Mrs. Debbie Moody. Mrs. Shirley Hawkins was the co-hostess. It has become a tradition that a luncheon is held at this time. There were 12 members and 1 guest present. As members gathered, the home was beautifully decorated with the Christmas motif. The front entrance was decorated with two Christmas trees and upon entering the foyer, there were also Christmas trees and greenery on the table. The den was also decorated with a tall beautiful tree with beautiful ornaments in addition to other things such as poinsettias, candles, etc. The kitchen was so inviting with aromas of food and drinks. The dining table was adorned with a large cylinder vase holding Christmas balls, flanked by miniature poinsettias resting in galvanized trays. Also, beautiful chargers dinnerware and napkins graced the table. Frances Ball blessed the food. After a sumptuous meal, everyone move into the den. Mrs. Dianne Luke, President, called the meeting to order. Frances Ball also gave the Inspiration which was the Christmas Story. In the account of this most miraculous birth, she also pointed out some facts, such as the 80 plus miles that Joseph and Mary must travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem to meet the mandated census required by the Roman Government. Upon arrival, there was no room in the Inn, therefore our Lord was born in a lowly dirty stable. God had a plan and even sent an angel to tell the lowly shepherds to go and see what had happened, a miraculous birth. Then they were to go and tell others this exciting news. This is what we are supposed to do. Humbleness was God’s plan and that is our call today. What a different world this world would be if this was practiced today. May this be a challenge this year. Next, Frances Ball called the roll and read the minutes and Dale Shumaker gave the Treasurer’s report which was approved.
Horticulture was brought by Noniene Keen which was a Yellow Christmas cactus and discussed the care and the pruning. The Design was by Debbie Moody which was a beautiful arrangement of hanging greens of herbs such as rosemary, cedar and a snowman. Two other members brought arrangements using herbs. One was a hanging of rosemary, dried garlic bloom and tied with red raffia. This can be hung on the door and offers a welcome. Another member brought an interesting arrangement of pots of different herbs placed in a window box. This was really neat in that the herbs can be pinched off as needed for cooking in addition to a great smell.
The program was brought by Mrs. Schella Stone. R.N. and chef. She used a rustic tray with handles for easy carrying. She used small pots of herbs and added a touch of Christmas by wrapping pots with burlap and ribbon. In addition, she used miniature battery lights and candles to add a festive look. This tray can be moved from place to place.
Mrs. Luke called for committee reports. Members decorated a tree for the Library and also donated a book.
Several members decorated the Christmas tree at Legion State Park for the annual Christmas Party of Friends of Park on December 5.
Mrs. Marie Shaw reported the 45 dogwood trees had been planted at LSP. Another Dogwood tree will be planted on Arbor DAY in memory of former member, Mrs. Frances Pierce. With no other business, members exchanged gifts by playing the dirty Santa game. All received a nice gift. Door prizes poinsettias given by who could guess certain Carols. The meeting was adjourned until February which will be held a t the home of Mrs. Sandra Cullwell.
