Christmas Traditions - Home for the Holidays in Drawing Room

Decorated by Late Bloomers Garden Club.  During the open house, we had the pleasure of hearing Charles Applegate play.  Though I couldn't get a picture then, he played twice more and so, I was able to get a snapshot.  The piano isn't an original, but what a nice addition for times like this.  The decoration of this room must have been a collaborative effort because of the businesses thanked for lending many of the posed family members from places about town.

So this is how I think this must play out, here is a little girl looking out at the deer looking in.  It must have been a reindeer checking things out because when I went back Rudolph was looking in the window.

As I hostessed in the house, I saw how much the little ones really loved this room.  It depicted a traditional family Christmas, which showcased some of their favorite things about the season.  They squealed when they would see the deer looking in and one little boy came up to me so very excited that he saw Santa's legs in the fireplace.  He wanted to make sure that I knew Santa was there.  And I guess Santa was checking to see and deemed me nice this year since my membership card came to me laminated.

Supporting Kingwood Center

My guy mailed in my renewal Kingwood Membership this week.  I set up my membership to expire in December so I can get an early Christmas present from him.  I like to joke that I supported Kingwood before they started laminating the membership cards.  Last year when I was showing my card to John M. at the gate, he said if I was really really good, they would give me a laminated card.  Well, I guess I will know when I get my card in the mail.  I had a Friend membership last year, which Kingwood renamed a Dual. So, I went ahead and added my guys name to the card so we could keep one in the truck and I don't have to remember about grabbing the one I keep in the jeep.  I also have a volunteer card, which allows me in Kingwood Center.  So it is official.  I have as many cards to get in Kingwood Center as I do credit cards.

Chuck G. put a note on my membership renewal letter.  It said "What an amazing year of volunteering you've had"!  And yes, I have had an amazing year of volunteering.  I was allowed to help with so many interesting things at Kingwood this year, from sorting tulips bulbs to washing Ohio Brass China in Mr. King's kitchen. I have had the opportunity to work with most of the staff on one project or another.  They all taught me so many things and allowed me to feel as if I had made a difference. (even if I had never done the task before and needed quite a bit of instruction and overseeing)  I also have worked with amazing volunteers there as well and developed good friendships. Some of my social gatherings have been scheduled as a volunteer task at Kingwood.  So yes, I do agree with Chuck, it was an amazing year of volunteering but I'm not sure who benefited more.  Kingwood Center or myself.