We’ve only reached the midpoint of December, but there are so many events and pictures to share that I’ve decided to do two December Happenings, lest readers become exhausted by the fun photos of all of the holiday festivities of the month. It turns out that, although we’re all exceptional gardeners, we also specialize in enjoying each other’s company.
EAGC kicked off the month by serving as Grand Marshal of the famed Exeter Holiday Parade, held on December 3. Although the day was rainy and gloomy, Mother Nature smiled on us and the rain stopped just as we lined up for the parade. We donned our Dollar Store finery and led off a long parade to a surprisingly large crowd of very merry parade viewers. It turns out that un-Christmas-like weather doesn’t deter holiday fans.
All ready to travel in our little motorized train. Lee’s grandson joined us in the role of assistant porter.Our club received enthusiastic applause from the crowd.Members twinkled all the way.It was shirt-sleeve weather for some of the kids.The bandstand was spectacular.Our train “engineer” was very enthusiastic – and an excellent driver.The lighted poinsettia bouquets were a hit.We were followed by blocks of lighted floats & vehicles.At the end of the line – waiting for Santa’s arrival.In the end, isn’t the president always left holding the bag?
Betsy’s annual Holiday Swap Shop Party was memorable as always. In fact, attendees agreed that this year Betsy outdid herself with her finely curated selection of swap shop “gifts.” If this year’s party were to have had a theme, it may well have been toilet-related. (In fact, that seemed to be the theme of her 2021 party as well.) Enjoy the treasures:
No buts about it, Ann H. scored an unusual gnome.Ginny T. looking for the “on” switch.Judy soon relieved Ginny of her gift.Abby-Jane expresses shock & awe at this flashing beauty.How clever – Max got toilet-shaped shot glasses .More toilet accessories – TP and a hand-made holder for Susan.Betsy shouldn’t look so surprised – she chose these candlesticks at the swap shop.A genuine plastic handbag in the shape of a chicken. Lucky Lee.Jill C. got one of the “nice” gifts, but this reindeer was swapped a number of times.Kathryn is hoping there are no ashes in this pot.How fortunate for Mimi. Genuine Spode, just the right size for a Bloody Mary for one.A Chinese dragon head, exactly what LuAnn needed for the New Year’s Parade.Another triumph for Judy – fill the glasses & those guys on the front drop their drawers.Mimi can’t decide whether this birdhouse will attract birds or scare them off.We had an eye on Linda V. More shock & awe from Abby-Jane. How much can one woman stand?
In addition to supplying all these stunning gifts, Betsy also had a spectacular spread of goodies, including lots and lots of her meticulously decorated cookies. A fun morning for all who attended – much laughter and many calories!
There’s much more to come. Watch for December Happenings – Part Two, available in your inbox in early January.
Thank you to my inveterate photographers, Ann H. and Patti Smith!
2 thoughts on “December Happenings – Part One”
What fun everyone has had! The parade looked fabulous. Loved all the lights!And I won’t be a bit surprised if some of the truly” lovely” gifts at the swap shop party end up at Wonderland or Salvation Army! Happy Holidays!
What fun everyone has had! The parade looked fabulous. Loved all the lights!And I won’t be a bit surprised if some of the truly” lovely” gifts at the swap shop party end up at Wonderland or Salvation Army! Happy Holidays!
It wouldn’t be Christmas without your swap party, Betsy. Thanks for all the giggles!