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Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Smiley Park Children's Garden - Second Season


Master Gardeners and Community Volunteers cleaned and tucked away the Children's Garden for another successful season. Painting, pruning, trimming and needed repairs were completed for another year. There were many visitors and the Growing For The Hungry project was a success.

Three years ago Jim Clay approached Sue Heppeard and I suggesting the garden needed to extend its season. He and his family wanted to light up the garden for the Christmas Season. Everyone loves Christmas, so they set about outfitting the garden to look like a Christmas Fairy Land. This was all new to us, so we had no idea what to expect. A few other supportive community people got on board. DeShia furnished hot chocolate and cookies. There was Santa and Mrs Claus and of course there were Carolers to add to the festivities.



The magic hour for the opening was the eve before Thanksgiving at 6:30pm. By 6pm people were lined up at least a block long. Now what do we do? We had to call local law enforcement to direct traffic and help with the parking. Needless to say the hot chocolate and cookies did not last long. This was way beyond our expectations. It was estimated at least 1000 people turned out for the opening.  People were thrilled and so were we. The park was lighted every night until New Years.  Santa was there most evenings until he had to do his deliveries on Christmas Eve.




Year two, and with the previous success, we were better prepared. As this community is well noted for giving support, they contributed funds and gifts to come to Santa's aid. The Girl Scouts were well prepared with hot chocolate and cookies. This year was even bigger than the year before.The Clay Family spent a lot of time preparing for this event. A new tradition has been born.




The Clays started preparing the Christmas Garden in October this year. Keep this on your calender to start your Christmas Season. Several new things have been added and more lights have decked out the gardens, if that's even possible! The lights are scheduled to be turned on November 26th at 6:30pm. If you are in the area join us as the Children's Garden is transformed for it's second season as the Children's Christmas Garden.







Sue & Louise

1 comment:

  1. great story you two, love the pics...we are ready and cannot wait.

    ReplyDelete