by Jan Spence –
How do you get into the spirit of the holiday season on a balmy December 1st, with no crispness in the air to even hint at winter wonderlands, sleigh bells ringing, or chestnuts roasting on an open fire? You join your Seeds of Strength friends and their guests at the Annual Holiday Tea!
SoS members donned holiday garb and made our way to the Georgetown Community Center in beautiful San Gabriel Park. The holiday cheer started before we even entered the building, where two giant poinsettias flanked each side of the door and set the tone. After being warmly greeted in the foyer, we entered a large room that was awash with lovely decorations creating a holiday party atmosphere.
In addition to a beautifully decorated tree and large wreath, each of the tables throughout the room was uniquely decorated to make its own seasonal statement. No two centerpieces were alike, and there was so much beauty to enjoy! One table artfully combined live plants and flowers along with red ribbons and pine boughs, while another displayed a wooden swan sculpture with seasonal greenery and color. A third table sparkled with a candelabra, tall glittery red Christmas trees, and evergreens, while the table across from it held a silver bird sculpture nested on a bed of “snow,” magnolia leaves, decorative artichokes, and Christmas ornaments. Every table issued an invitation to get into the holiday spirit.
At the front of the room was the serving table laden with hors d’oeuvres of every type – from cheeses and fruit to savory and sweet (especially sweet) – and all were tasty! The delicious treats were offered on lovely tiered serving trays and platters accented with giant golden candle globes and a large fresh flower arrangement to complete the festive look. Kudos to the members of our exceptional Events Committee for creating such a marvelous affair.
When our plates were filled with the delectable fare, we selected a glass of wine or punch before finding a place at one of the tables where we could enjoy the appetizers and catch up with friends. The buzz in the room steadily grew as members reconnected with each other, met new members and guests, and enjoyed the camaraderie and fellowship. Hugs and laughter were readily exchanged throughout the gathering.
SoS Membership Chair, Barbara Garland, welcomed all of our guests and encouraged them to join us in serving our community. She also reminded current members that annual donations could now be made for the 2017 year of membership. SoS Chair, Linda Foster-Smith, then took the spotlight to remind us of how far we have come and of the positive impact our grants have in the community at large.
Enjoying the sparkle of the decorations, the friendship, and the heartfelt words of our capable leaders, it was easy to step fully into December filled with enthusiasm for the holiday season and for the work that Seeds of Strength does.