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After I got home from the show I downloaded the pictures to my laptop computer. On Sunday I took the laptop to the Garden Show to review the pictures with Peg. I wanted to verify which ones might need to be retaken. A few vendors did not smile; those were definite candidates for retakes. In the process of waiting and shooting the pictures, I got to talk with and learn a bit about many of the vendors. I already knew the “business names” now I was getting to know the individual people. A few of the vendors made me smile or laugh, a few moved right into my heart; it felt so much like sharing with family.

On Sunday afternoon as the vendors were disassembling their booths and carrying things out to their vehicles, I felt sad. It is amazing how close you can feel to people in such a short time. It had been two great days. Experiences like this are priceless.

I am grateful to all those who were a part of the show: sponsors; vendors; attendees; Darrell Sharp and his students who created floral designs for the show (What fabulous flower trees!); the WIN girls who helped with vendor support; Suzanne Little and the Boys and Girls Club who opened their doors to us. And most of all I am grateful to my Soroptimist sisters – especially Sandy Reed, who as Garden Show Committee Coordinator, steadfastly kept us on track.

The success of any fundraiser is not just in the amount of dollars collected, but also in the amount of good experiences collected. Our 6th Annual Gala Garden Show and Sale was a grand success! Each person at the show (workers, vendors, attendees) has his or her own story about the experience.

When I reflect back on the joyous, fun and meaningful experiences of my life, many of them happened while working with my Soroptimist sisters. Getting involved is the key.

Light and Love,
Kathy Purcell
Editor