Garden Club celebrates Christmas

The Hillsboro Garden Club met on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at the Ponderosa for their annual celebration of the Christmas holidays.  Larry and Judy Moore hosted the gala evening and were delighted to welcome 22 revelers.  A holiday punch and Carol Gorby's famous Frosted Cranberries were served as members and guests arrived.

Table favors, created by Judy Moore, of a pine bough adorned with a candy cane, snowman ornament and gold and red berries set the mood for a festive affair.  Ed Davis led the group in singing "Silent Night" and offered a prayer of thanks for all our blessings and continued fellowship.

Prior to dinner, a gift wrapping contest had been judged with Dianna Baker winning the "Prettiest Package" category, Nancy Sonner claimed the title of "Most Creative Wrapping," and Nancy Baldwin and Juanita Carson shared honors for "Most Original Design".  Each received a scented candle in a lovely decorated holder or a Ponderosa gift certificate.

A delicious meal of Grilled Chicken Breast, Country Ham, Sweet Potato Casserole, Corn, Peas, Tossed Salad, Roll and assorted drinks followed by a variety of desserts made everyone feel 'plump and jolly' and ready for the highlight of the evening - opening of presents, of course.  All was not so 'peaceful and bright' though, as stealing and chicanery of every sort took place before all gifts were opened and the ribbon and tinsel had settled.  A certain penguin waddled his way into the hearts of several attendees before going home with Rose Marie Cowdrey and Arlene Huiet promises a report on her gift of Body Butter.  All in all, it was a fun time and many imaginative gifts were received.

Pat Lawrence reported briefly on our participation in the Hillsboro Holiday Parade last Saturday.  Our float was decorated with lighted greenery and gold garland with huge gold bulbs, a twenty foot lighted Christmas tree attired in gold and red ornaments, and a very large stuffed bear to fill in any 'bare' spot not filled by the nine members and one grandchild.  Our float was directly behind the Hillsboro High School marching band and followed by Ronald McDonald---can one be in a better spot?!  Although we did not place in the float contest this year, we will persevere and add more greenery, more lights, more stuffed animals, more children, and be friendlier to the judges.

Our next regular meeting will be February 23, 2010 at the Floral Hall at the Highland County Fairgrounds.  Visitors are always welcome.  If you are interested in visiting or joining the Hillsboro Garden Club, please contact President Nancy Baldwin at 937-981-2876 or Pat Lawrence at 937-840-9222.