Gettin' shabby at Civic Garden Club

David Reeves spoke to Civic Garden club on "Shabby Chic"

"Shabby Chic" was the program topic of the recent meeting of Civic Garden Club. Member David Reeves explained how he combined his career as a floral designer with an interest in antiques and "junk." Quoting from the book, "Shabby Chic" by Rachel Ashwell, David defined the style as one "that embodies comfort, the beauty of imperfection, the allure of time-worn objects and the appeal of simple, practical living." A display of pieces from his collection provided a backdrop as he discussed creative uses for seemingly useless objects. By attending flea markets and antique shows, he now enjoys having his own space at a Mineola mall. Following his talk, members asked questions and enjoyed looking at his unique creations.

Prior to the program, Martha Clark, president, called the meeting to order. Hostesses Kathy Netherland, Nancy Camper, Karen May, Louise Raby, and Pam DeCeault were recognized and thanked. Guests were welcomed, cheer cards signed, donations taken, and business matters discussed.

Martha explained that a silent plant auction was in progress as the meting began. At designated intervals, members would make additional bids. The auction is an annual fundraiser for the club and enjoys large member participation.

In between bidding sessions, Betty Lee provided the monthly horticulture tip. Toting a large plastic bag, she began to take out items, one at a time. She mentioned that each one was supposed to help protect the gardener's knees, when working in the garden or yard. However, none of them really worked for her, so she held up the last item in the bag, which was the best solution. She had taken an old pair of denim jeans and sewed large pockets on the knees. Inside the pockets, she had inserted pieces of foam rubber, creating ideal knee protection.

Diana Ponder continued the comprehensive study series taken from "Legends and Lore of Texas Wildflowers." Her subject was the Paintbrush, a member of the Figwort family. In Texas, there are nine native species of the Paintbrush. Each year the Texas Department of Transportation sows thousands of pounds of the seeds along Texas highways. Mixed with another native Texas, the Bluebonnet, the brilliant reds create spectacular ribbons of color for motorists every spring.

Final auction bids were accepted and announcements concluded the meeting. Attending were Loel Barber, Elaine Berkeley, Wanda Bittick, Martha Clark, Jennie Daigle, Pam DeCeault, Ruby Dodgen, Alma Nell Farmer, Mary Jane Formby, Joy Foster, Kim Gore, Virginia Hudson, Betty Jeter, Montex Kain, Melynda Keenon, Betty Lee, Sandra Lewis, Doyce Maywald, Kathy Netherland, Diana Ponder, Louisa Raby, David Reeves, Marian Richardson, Darlene Saunders, Vicki Simpson, Lawana Sistrunk, Lavada Thomas, and Judy Wilkins. Special guests were Erin Gore, JoAnn Whiteside, Gladys Crouch, Betty Chitwood, Cristi Langley, Tawanah Tanner, Jade Netherland, and Brenda Maxwell.