Greetings Visitors!

Heads-up, if you are in need of an evergreen wreath, candle centerpiece, cute and festive table décor, door swags or other evergreen creations, and live locally to my neck of the woods and nearby towns, please stop by on Friday, December 14th, at the Ellington Winter Market, 11 Pinney Street in the YMCA Building, 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm.

I will be there tucked in the corner surrounded by evergreens.  It is a great opportunity to pick up a hostess gift if you are on your way to a holiday gathering, a festive item to dress up your home, and holiday presents for your family and friends.  We know we all have very busy schedules this time of year, however, it only takes a few seconds to swing on your way to shopping malls or gatherings.  You will find other wonderful homemade and hand-crafted local gifts at the market – it is their Holiday Festival Date this Friday at the Ellington Winter Market.

Cathy T at the Market

Yesterday, because I wasn’t exactly sure where the YMCA Building is located, I decided to take a ride after picking up my cat from the vet.  Here was my cat, meowing louder than a hungry baby in the car, and me driving down Windsorville Road.  The cat was becoming so loud, I accidentally took a left onto Pinney Road (instead of Pinney Street).  It didn’t take long for me to discover my error, I should have continued straight down Windsorville Road to the rotary.  Follow the rotary circle and take the 4th exit onto Rt 286/Pinney Street.  The YMCA Building is on your right shortly thereafter.  There is plenty of parking in the front.  http://mapq.st/UBgg6g

You know, I’ve never been inside this building before.  It is amazing how many new places I’m introduced to in town from the markets and my garden presentations, from libraries to churches.  Makes me realize, I need to check out my local offerings more often!  Shame on me!

There are many services, sometimes services which are free, which we overlook.  In fact, this afternoon I plan to go visit the new Vernon Community Arts Center at 709 Hartford Turnpike.  Up to Sunday, December 23, they are showcasing 70 local artists works.  Hours vary, so visit www.vernonarts.org to find the times, but I definitely want to go there to get some unusual holiday gifts.  And support our motivated and talented local artists.

I also have to make it out to the East Windsor Trolley Museum to see Jeannie Pomeroy-Murphy sing.  She is a local friend from my high school class, and I still haven’t made it out there – shame on me!  The CT Trolley Museum is having their Winterfest every weekend until Sunday, December 30th.  Great for kids because of the ride of lights on the antique trolleys.  For hours, visit www.ct-trolley.org.  They took a hit earlier this year, when someone stole items, which I read about in the newspaper.  This is the perfect time of year to help them recoop from the impact, by utilizing their services and seeing Jeannie sing too – support our local venues, they need us.

Maybe we need a tour bus arranged so we can be shuttled to all the local events as it seems they can be easily overlooked or there just doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day.  As for myself, I haven’t even started my Christmas shopping – I might as well have fun while doing it – so going to local events is one great way to do so.  Cathy T

http://www.cathytesta.com
860-977-9473
Cathy T’s Landscape Designs
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cathy-Ts-Landscape-Designs/214478311912
http://pinterest.com/cathytesta/
Email:  cathy.testa@aol.com