Gulf Shores Women’s Club

This past week I had the pleasure of speaking to the Gulf Shore’s Women’s Club which meets at the beautiful Craft Farm’s Club House. It was a wonderful meeting with around 50 members attending the fun luncheon.

When I arrived, the room was already buzzing with activity. This is one of the most organized groups I’ve seen in a long time, and I’m sure the Gulf Shores community appreciates their many contributions. One of my favorite programs they mentioned was the “Birthday Club.” On the member’s birthday month, they bring a gift bag containing a cake mix, can of icing, and birthday candles. These bags are taken to a local agency that serves families in need, and are distributed to the parents of children with birthdays, so they will have a tasty cake on their special day. Isn’t that a great idea?

I was at the meeting representing the Gulf Coast Newspapers, and many of the ladies were familiar with my column, “Southern with a Gulf Coast accent” which appears in their paper, The Islander. The photo above, shows me with my new friend Bootsie, who said my story, “Elvis is in the manger” is her all time favorite, and that she’s even sent it to many of her out of town friends. How nice!  She was so supportive and kind, as was everyone.

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This month, the members had a bit of a talent show, with many bringing crafts and artwork they’ve created to display. It was the perfect backdrop to my presentation, because I spoke about the creative spirit we feel here in Baldwin County.

This mardi gras wreath was incredible. Absolutely beautiful, you would have to have a very large front door to even hold it.

Baskets woven from local pine needles, paintings, handmade dolls and sewing projects were all perfect examples of people who stay busy and explore their passions.

This needlepoint sailboat was one of my favorites. Mainly because I’ve tried needlepoint before, and know what a pain in the patootie it is.

Supplies are donated by members each month for various agencies throughout the county. The Lighthouse, a shelter for women will be the recipients of these much needed items, and the other display was for the work the club does at The Alabama Sheriff’s Boy’s Ranch.

Everyone had a job to do, but mixed in with all the formalities was plenty of laughter and fun, visiting with good friends. The main topic of the day was the excitement over the upcoming Tour of Homes, which is the club’s signature event. Now in it’s 38th year, the tour raises funds for academic scholarships for community members.

This year’s tour is coming up on Saturday, February 21st and features five stunning homes. Details for tickets are located at the bottom of this post. If you are in our area, you will want to make sure to attend!

And of course, on the way home, I was sucked in to the vortex of all massive stores, Old Time Pottery, which is where I end up every time I’m in Gulf Shores. I didn’t need a thing, but it was a good work out, roaming the million miles of aisles overflowing with pillows, dishes, and more baskets than any one person could ever dream of. I bought a pot holder, and called it a day.

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The Women’s Club is crucial to the feeling of community in Gulf Shores. Come down and support their efforts by attending the 38th Annual Tour of Homes, Saturday, February 21st. Tickets are $20 and can be bought ahead of time at these fine businesses:

Fran’s on Hwy 59

In the Pelican Place Shopping Center – Beach Boutique and Jubilee Apparel and Gifts

Flowers by the Shore on Hwy 59

In Orange Beach, Pack and Mail in the Winn Dixie Shopping Center. 

The City of Gulf Shores will be running a shuttle bus to the houses. Contact them here for more information. Very few tickets may be available at the door on the day of the tour, but this popular event usually sells out fast, so get your tickets now!