The December AAUW Branch Meeting was, once again, a social—(and, Lo, these many years) a social service—Success! December 14th was the time of this event; DD Patrick's home was the spot where it all happened. Rain was expected, so the entire Affair occupied much of the Patrick family home. The Weather turned sunny.
And cutting to the chase, the intrepid group of members and guests who prepared our Holiday Gift Bags to distribute to CAPSLO (Community Action Partnership) made quick work of this annual project—providing many dozens of practical and cheerful gifts! Glittery, be-ribboned, and filled with dental products, shampoos, toiletries and other gifties, the bags made for a festive sight.
It was a hybrid Social Occasion, starting with the Big Sorting of toiletries and care-and-comfort items (donated by members and some guests and also purchased by the Branch). Among all the Largess, we were fortunate to have large numbers of toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, dermatology samples, socks, and fresh new white washcloths acquired and donated by members and guests. The many and varied items filled numerous boxes and tubs on large tables.
Following the Sort there was a mini-Holiday Concert with guest singers who harmonized for us and a festive Lunch, (including warm Chicken Chili and Desserts laid out by hosts DD Patrick and Family and enjoyed on a huge dining room table, by many). All of this was followed by a speedy gift assembly production, next to the grand piano! The result was 153 shimmery Gift Bags.
And after all the Activity, the attendees were handed small succulent plants, potted in coffee- and teacups by, again, our Hostess DD, and sent on their Merry way.
At this juncture, the many boxes and bags of Bags were driven away in Mary's car, and handed off to the very appreciative staff at CAPSLO.
The End.
Except for another run by me to the stores, to buy more goods to utilize remaining supplies and fill more Gift Bags. Our grand Total was 171 AAUW Gift Bags.
The Solo method was utilized to finish that additional Extra, which illustrates (as it did during the Pandemic) that many hands really Do make light work!! The Score: group of great volunteers "Zowie." Soloist: "Fair—& Points for Participation."
Please send our thanks to everyone who participated!
Yours Truly, "P for P!"
And Thanks, All!
Mary Howell
