Cool weather, an early evening and a huge harvest moon usher in “A Celebration of the Season!” Arts and crafts, fall produce, entertainment, a kids’ amusement area and delicious food makes Granbury’s Harvest Moon Festival a must for families and friends.

The festivities are on Saturday, October 27th from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the Historic Courthouse Square and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, October 28th. Admission is FREE.

Enjoy the Scarecrow Decorating Contest, Decorated Pumpkin Contest (all entries will be displayed all day), Kids in Costumes Contest (children under 10 years of age) and a Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest. Dad and Grandpa don’t want to miss the Antique Engine and Tractor Show in Lambert Branch Park and the Antique Tractor Parade at noon on Saturday around the Square.

Special entertainment by local entertainers will be held on our stage with performances on both Saturday and Sunday. The Hot Dog Eating Contest creates fun for the entire family on Sunday afternoon.

People of all ages will enjoy Sunday afternoon and the ever-popular “Pooch Parade.” Pooches, dressed in costumes, do crazy tricks and parade around on Crockett Street.

Join in the fun and make it a Granbury weekend to relax, be entertained, and enjoy great food and shop. The Historic Granbury Merchants Association, the City of Granbury and Hood County sponsor the Harvest Moon Festival. For more information, call HGMA at 817.573.5299 or visit www.granburysquare.com

Fall in Love with Art

A unique event showcasing members’ artwork in various mediums, showcases artists and art-lovers to Granbury’s Shanley House. The annual Fall Festival of Art Juried Show & Sale runs from October 6th – 28th. The public is also invited to a reception on the 13th at 6:30 p.m. at the Shanley House located at 224 N. Travis in Granbury when the awards will be announced.

The Lake Granbury Art Association began 40 years ago and now hosts over a hundred members.  Unique shows open often. The gallery is open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The Shanley House, estimated to have been built by 1886 and very possibly as early as the 1870s, was originally constructed as a gristmill. Known as the Granite Mills, its original proprietor, J. N. Haney, also built the Hood County Jail in 1885.

LGAA’s mission is to promote the education, appreciation and enjoyment of fine art in Granbury. For more information visit www.granburyart.org.

 

Art on the Paluxy

Glen Rose’s Artist-in-Residence, Robert Summers, and a small, select group of local and regional artists will showcase their talent at the historic Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum in Glen Rose on November 10th.  The Somervell History Foundation (SHF) presents the 5th Annual Art on the Paluxy—an art show and sale. This unique event features promising area artists, including Granbury artists.

All the artists will be in attendance, and some will be working. This is a fabulous opportunity to learn about new artists, visit with them, discuss their art and perhaps acquire something for your home.  Artists are purposely selected who display a variety of mediums and styles, along with artists specializing in pottery, sculpture or jewelry. Enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Somervell History Foundation’s primary focus is its unique responsibility in restoring and preserving Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum. Completed in 1860, the Historic Barnard’s Mill was the first permanent structure in the area. The newest part, completed about sixty years ago, is now owned and operated by the SHF and contains Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum. The Mill has been on the State Register of Historical Places for over twenty years and in 1982 was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to the priority of the restoration of Barnard’s Mill, the SHF focuses on improving the offerings to the community for art appreciation.

Attendance is $10 per person and free to SHF members. Barnard’s Mill is located at 307 SW Barnard Street, Glen Rose.

Dana Vollmer spent her youth getting up before dawn to swim, to train, to reach gold. At twelve while her friends attended parties and shopped, Dana was at the Olympic trial, and at 16 she stood on the Olympic stage and received her first two medals for the USA. Then after eight years of hard work, leading the USA Swim Team to Olympic Gold and setting new world records, Dana came home to do some of those things she didn’t get to do as a teenage—like shop with mom. Shopping on the Granbury Square is always fun; however shopping with an Olympian Gold Medal Champion is extra-special.

 Creek Boutique – We began our Granbury Gold Shopping Spree at Caylor Creek Boutique, tucked into the east side of Granbury Square Plaza. This store offers a combination of California trends and a touch of the south—perfect for Dana. She fell in love with a pair of boots and looked at the high fashion jeans, blouses and handbags–all excellent brands. While Dana tried on more tops and dresses, I checked out Caylor Creek Boutique one-of-a-kind jewelry by local artists and found a perfect pair. Currently open seven days a week at 201 E. Pearl Street. 817.579.5444. Follow on Facebook at Caylor Creek~Granbury.

As we left, I knew two things: Dana’s legs are much longer, younger and faster than mine and the girl can shop!

The Texas Sampler – Marty Vandaveer welcomed Dana with a huge gift-basket full of all kinds of spices and dips. The Sampler says TEXAS. Quick and easy products with quality taste at your shopping leisure in any season and any temperature. Dana’s eyes lit up as she discovered the gluten-free products. Every party should have some. The Texas Sampler is located on the west side of the Granbury Square Plaza, off of Crockett Street 817.573.3486   www.TexasSamplerFoods.com

Rio Grande Boutique – Color pops in the Rio Grande boutique this year– bright and varied. Dana saw a dress the minute we walked into the store. Like most Texas-raised girls, she looked at the sale rack first and found a darling dress, but the one by the front door called her name. Rio Grande offers many styles by top designers. The top of the top, Joseph Ribkoff, designs for Miss America. When Dana tried on the first dress, her dad, mom and I all sighed, “Wow!” Joseph Ribcoff wins the gold with design. Rio Grande Boutique is located at 111 E. Pearl Street. 817.579.0089

RED on the Square – Owner Vicki and Scott Young met Dana and family as we walked in the door. Red offers high-end fashion at affordable prices in fine clothing for women and children. Dana and her mom browsed through women’s fashions, Lee Andersen clothing and Mary Francis designer bags. Dana’s dad, big brother, Nick, and Hendricks, her best friend’s baby, enjoyed RED boutique lines of infant/toddler toys. Located in the Red bank building at 101 Pearl Street on the southwest corner of the Square, Red has its own parking area. 817.573.3300

Artèfactz – Owner Cynthia James, a long-time art friend of Dana’s grandmother, stayed open a little late just for Dana. Artèfactz is a shoppe of creative expression, located on the downtown Granbury Square, it carries unique, nature-inspired, artisan-created products. Purses, backpacks, yarns and t-shirts of all kinds, including Old Guys Rule, make Artefactz a plethora of artistic diversity. Hand-blown art glass balls, in a beautiful mix of colors, along with a wide range of accessories, are just some of the unique merchandise offerings. Dana and her mom left the shop with some beautiful earrings handmade by Cynthia James. Visit www.artefactz.com. 817.573.9446Market on the Square – Owner Melba White watched for Dana from the doorway of her inspiring shop. With ten vendors, it offers ladies clothes, purses, jewelry and other accessories. Handcrafted furniture and wooden gift items and a Christmas room open all year lured her to browse. However the Kenyan Korner, with all proceeds going to the Open Arms Village which is an orphanage for homeless children, caught Dana’s heart. She couldn’t leave without a pair of candleholders with elephant carvings. “It’s a family thing,” Dana explained. In the Vollmer family an elephant symbolizes the love they have for each other, a love that’s never forgotten. Market on the Square is located at 112 N. Houston 817.573.6161

Stuff ‘N’ Nonsense Boutique – Owner, Becky Barton met us as we walked up the steps of the shop. Dana glanced through all the wonderful fall vest and jackets, perfect for California where she lives with her husband, Andy. The great selections of fashion jewelry, watches, scarves, ponchos, and wraps caught her eye–especially the watches. Unique tops to wrap and turn to a completely different style are a favorite. Stuff ‘n” Nonsense Boutique is located at 113 W Bridge St. or call 817.573.9060.

Joe’s Pasta – Dana’s family and friends met us at Joe’s and the wait-staff jumped into service—but they greet everyone that way, even if you’re not a famous gold medal champion. Then owner, Cutter Thompson, served up our favorite, fine Italian cuisine. Dana credits her new gluten free regiment and training in the ocean for the world records she set in the 2012 Olympics. Items like Chicken Diana, Salmon Napolitano served with mixed vegetables or steak, shrimp and fish with palate-pleasing sauces make Joe’s the perfect place for those allergic to gluten products. Joe’s stromboli and pizza are the best this side of New Jersey. Joe’s Pasta and Pizza is located at 512 W. Pearl Street in Granbury visit www.joesingranbury.com or call 817.579.JOES (5637).

Mia Bella Spa – When Dana and I met Michelle at Mia Bella Spa, I listened to the two of them talk about hands-on massage therapy and realized the health reasons for massages. Mia Bella Spa offers massage therapy treatment with full-body massage treatments that are enhanced with scented aromatherapy oils, and hot towels to provide a total-body relaxation experience. Their Deep-Tissue Massage/ Sports Massage stimulates circulation, relieve muscle tension and are great for staying flexible and limber during sporting events. Mia Bella Spa can help us all feel better and be healthier, even if we aren’t competing in the Olympics. Located in the southeast area of the Granbury Square Plaza. Call 682.936.7216 for more information.

Cactus Flower, on the west side of Granbury’s Square, showcases many beautiful jackets, contemporary tops, scarves and matching pants. Rita Scott welcomed Dana and I with her warm smile and friendly help. Cactus Flower carries exquisite designs that flatter all figures—Dana’s tall, trim lines and my…fluffy figure. Sterling Indian jewelry, plus a great line of high quality fashion jewelry, unique home décor, pillows, throws, pottery, dinner wear and genuine, bone-handle flatware all caught Dana’s eye. Visit 104 N. Houston Street or call 817.573.7725.

Doug’s Sports House – Doug Knippa, owner of Doug’s Sports House on the east side of the Square in Granbury may have enjoyed Dana’s shopping spree almost as much as I did. The Sports Shop offers everything for the sports fan, although he didn’t have any Cal State (Dana’s college) memorabilia. How can that be? But when Dana asked about Dallas Cowboy items, Doug quickly showed us his wide selection. Dana especially liked the “pillow pet-by night/football by day” in the Dallas Cowboy mascot. I tried to talk her into a Texas Tech hoody with just the right amount of sparkle. Doug’s Sports House offers a large assortment of gifts for men and it’s located at 120 N. Crockett Street. 682.936.2729.

D’Vine Wine – I planned a surprise for Dana at D’Vine Wine, a special label, personalized titled Dana’s Gold with pictures of Dana at the Olympics and with her husband and her at their wedding. She picked the type of wine from their vast supply. We enjoyed a wine tasting and special music. Joshua Winters, one of the owners of D’Vine Wine (along with Tony and Diane Hedges), discussed family connections and then explained how to make your own wine, bottle it and create your very own personalized labels. Dana signed autographs and wished people in the shop a happy birthday. Located on the north side of the Historic Granbury Square. 817.573.7200 www.dvinewineusa.com 

Agave Tamale Company – The Agave girls met Dana and I for an afternoon tamale–uniquely made, hand rolled, lard free, gluten free and msg free. Long-time friends with Dana and her family, Susan Miller greeted her with a gold-medal hug. They are comfort food—not like any tamale I’ve ever had. We decided these should be called Agave quiche or pies or just yummies–and the girls cook up the best black beans ever with feta cheese on top. Dine in or take out. Agave Tamale Company caters events or can be mailed to friends and family. Located one block west of the Square at 106 N. Lambert Street. Call 817.579.7600 for more information.

Party on the Peak 2012

 the panoramic views of the North Texas prairie from the high vista of Comanche Peak on October 6th. Embark on a rare tour to visit Historic Comanche Peak where original Texans—native and pioneers both once roamed.

The journey to the past begins at 4:00 p.m. at 4401 Peak Road in Granbury, giving the guests time to soak up the rich history of the Peak. Relax with cocktails atop the peak. Enjoy casual entertainment, art displays, historical interpretations, and chuck-wagon cooking demonstrations.

Savor a delicious one-of-a kind dinner prepared by Granbury’s own Homer Robertson, National Cowboy Champion Chuck-wagon Cook. Join in the silent-auction and live-auction, bidding on exciting items and packages. Dance under the big Texas stars to the music of Tommy Hooker.

Funds raised through Party on the Peak will be used for Preserve Granbury projects. Current projects include a cooperative venture with the City of Granbury to restore and open the historic buildings at Lambert Branch Park and the establishment of a preservation “revolving fund” to save endangered historic buildings. Last year, more than 400 guests raised $37,778 for historic preservation projects in Hood County. For more information, call 817.573.2787.

Taste of Granbury 2012

The 11th Annual Taste of Granbury gala brings elegance on the moonlit water of Lake Granbury.  On October 18th from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. the culinary journey begins and includes the following eateries and their fine chefs: Del Norte Tacos, The Loft, Harbor Lakes Golf Club, Riverhouse Grill, Buffalo Gap, Lake Granbury Medical Center, Pearl Street Station and HEB.

The evening’s ambiance continues with a wine tasting and excellent entertainment. A raffle and live auction, with good-humor-bidding on unique items and outstanding value, benefits Granbury’s US Veteran’s Museum, Project Graduation and other community non-profits.

Taste of Granbury 2012, hosted by the Granbury Brigade promises to be even better than last year’s. The Brigade organizes the event and brings local chefs and their delectable cuisine to the Granbury Conference Center.  Brigade members sell tickets, serve as waitstaff, decorate tables, plus secure door prizes and amazing auction items so guests can take home unique prizes.

Tickets sell out fast, so don’t wait. For more information contact Sylvia Hickey at 817.326.5565.

Think Pink!  -  Fashions for the Fighters, the Survivors and Hope

Join in a night of celebration supporting the FIGHTERS, admiring the SURVIVORS and HONORING those taken.  Plus the Pink Ribbon Fashion Show offers a night to remind us to never, ever give up HOPE!

Red on the Square and Stuff ‘N’ Nonsense Boutique present their “Annual Pink Ribbon Fashion Show” with wonderful giveaways, delicious tastings and a showcase of new fall-fashion.

Don’t miss this special event with a few delightful surprises!  Pick up your tickets at Stuff ‘N’ Nonsense Boutique or Red on the Square.

“The issue here is Independence!”
~ Benjamin Franklin

In the days leading up to July 4, 1776, Continental Congress, including men like John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, coerced Thomas Jefferson into writing the Declaration of Independence while they persuade the colonies to support independence from the tyranny of the King.

In June and July of 2012, Granbury Theatre Company opens its premier season with the musical, 1776. The perfect way to celebrate freedom, 1776 brings a passionate look at the politics and personalities that led to the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the theater scene in Granbury. At times highly compelling and at times outrageously funny, this musical, written by Peter Stone and music by Sherman Edwards, follows John Adams and the rest of America’s forefathers as they face numerous obstacles and strive to form a new nation. Though the final outcome is well known long before the curtain rises, the journey is pure musical entertainment.

To enhance the experience this production will play at the Hood County Courthouse at 1200 W. Pearl Street in Granbury. With a backdrop of justice, surrounded by the furnishings of freedom in the historic Hood County Courthouse this musical version of 1776 can only be provided by father-time, between walls where life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness continue to be protected.

This award winning musical begins a new era of theater in Granbury, opening June 22nd and playing every Friday and Saturday evening at 7:00 p.m. through July 7th with two special 4th of July performances at 3:30 and 7:00 p.m. To order tickets, call 801.231.9545. Or visit www.granburytheatrecompany.org

2012 Granbury
Theatre Academy

Granbury Theatre Company presents the first season of its performance arts educational program. Granbury Theatre Academy offers a variety of performance art disciplines for youth ages 8 to 18. Educational courses include: intensive study in acting, musical theater, stage movement, voice, tap, jazz and more.

Classes are available in a two-week semester and will culminate with an open workshop. Both sessions will be held concurrently, beginning on July 12th, 2012, with children (ages 8-12) studying from 9 a.m. -1 p.m. and teenagers (13-18) from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Taught by experienced and caring instructors, students will be inspired to grow in their individual area of study.
Executive Director of the Granbury Theatre Company, Andrew Barrus, brings to the Granbury Theatre Company and the Academy over 15 years of experience. His entire life has been spent obtaining hands-on experience in virtually every aspect of live theater production. He now blesses Granbury with that expertise.

“Our goal,” Barrus explains, “is to provide children and teens with every opportunity to expand their knowledge and expertise in the performance arts. We take very seriously our responsibility as youth educators and look forward to sharing our experience with your children in the theater profession.”
For more information call 801.231.9545. Or visit www.granburytheatrecompany.org

PERFORMANCE DATES:
June 22-23 – 7:00 p.m.
June 29-30 – 7:00 p.m.
July 4 – 3:30 – 7:00 p.m.
July 6 – 3:30 – 7:00 p.m.

PLEASE CALL FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS:
General Admission Tickets – $30
Group Tickets for 10
or more – $28 per ticket
Box Office 817.579.0952

I entered the dorm/office building for the Granbury Opera House Theater and noticed the change immediately. A fresh look, organized rooms and contemporary décor greeted me. Andrew Barrus, waiting in the new seating area, stood–a picture of a prepared, organized, business professional.

After he introduced himself, I asked my most important question, “What is your most important goal as you take over as Creative Director of the Granbury Theatre Company?” The Theatre Company will be performing at the Opera House and other venues in the area. His answer sold me totally on Andrew Barrus and the exciting future of theater in Granbury.

“My main goal: I demand quality and consistency,” he said. “It must be as perfect as possible, entertaining and consistent. We are beginning theater in this community now!” This surprised me since the Opera House is under construction.

“Before the Opera House’s renovation is finished?” I asked.

“In June.” He smiled.

I would have laughed, but then he told me how that was possible. “The Opera House will present shows in June, July and August in various venues in town.” Andrew explained adding several possibilities that intrigued and delighted me. If I hadn’t seen his brother’s work in Cleburne, I would still be skeptical. Listening to Andrew’s amazing plans and creative approach, I can’t wait for the first show.

Andrew brings to the Granbury Theatre Company and the Opera House over 15 years of experience, working professionally with two successful live theaters, the Salt Lake Olympic Committee, Cirque Du Soleil and Princess Cruises. He has served each in a variety of positions including Technical Director, Head of Automation, Scenic Designer, Lighting Designer, Stage Manager, Director, Choreographer and Actor. He has been an integral team member in developing the winning theatrical model employed by StageStop Theater in Logan Utah and Hale Centre Theatre in Salt Lake City, Utah and opening a new Cirque Du Soleil show in China.

From June of 1997 to April of 2008 Andrew worked for Hale Center Theater, a regional theater in Salt Lake City, Utah, during which time the company saw the expansion of season ticket subscribers from 6,000 to 22,000 annually and an increase in an overall budget from 2.5 million to 6 million dollars.

In 2001 and 2002 Andrew was employed by the 2002 Salt Lake Olympic Committee as the Prop Master for all live entertainment during the Olympic Games. He was commissioned by the organization to work for the opening ceremonies, closing ceremonies and the outdoor entertainment throughout the Olympics.

In 2008 Andrew was employed by Cirque Du Soleil as the Head of Automation in Macau China for the opening of the company’s production of Zaia. During this time Andrew was responsible for all of the lifts and flying apparatuses.

In 2011 Andrew worked for the Princess Cruise Line as the production manager for live entertainment.

His entire life has been spent obtaining hands-on experience in virtually every aspect of live theater production. He now blesses Granbury with that expertise and an incredible creative, business-savvy mix I’ve not seen in many theater personalities.

Join Andrew in bringing great theater back to Granbury by purchasing your season tickets for the Charter Season of Granbury Theatre Company at the Historic Granbury Opera House. Season Ticket Prices: $200 for adults, $175 for Senior Citizens, $175 for students and $160 for Children 12 and under. To order tickets, call 801.231.9545. Or visit www.granburytheatrecompany.org 

 

Lone Star State Dulcimer Festival 

May 11-13 at Oakdale Park Campground in Glen Rose

Dulcimer Rock? The Lone Star State Dulcimer Festival in Glen Rose, May 11-13, often walks on the wild side. Dana Hamilton and the amazing Lone Star State Dulcimer Club have nurtured the love of the sweet-strings across the nation through the Glen Rose Festival doorway.

This year the festival introduces the crazy, wonderful world of Bing Futch. Along with some rock, Bing Futch shares his flare with dulcimer blues. Russell Cook offers his special touch for songs of all kinds and of course the old-time bands like, Sweet Song String Band. Then there are nationally known artists like: Cathy Barton and Dave Para, Jim Miller, Scott Odena, Sue Carpenter, Debbie Porter, The Wright Family, Charles Whitmer, Time Was, The Famous Moore Family…Many, Much and Some.

Bring your lawn chair and sit under the giant oaks at Oakdale Park, the festival on Mother’s Day weekend. All concerts and workshops are totally free. For that price you may also watch the state completion for the hammer and mountain dulcimer. Free family entertainment for you and mom with a huge swimming pool and playground for the kids.

Bing Futch 

With roots in both African and Seminole Indian tribes, Bing Futch began playing Appalachian mountain dulcimer at Knott’s Berry Farm theme park in 1986. Since then, Futch has enjoyed a diverse and prolific solo career, composing dozens of scores for film, theater, themed attractions and television.

While shooting his first documentary, Futch worked closely with producers of the hit NBC series “Quantum Leap” and then left his California hometown of Los Angeles for Florida where he set up a multimedia company and served as musical director for the Stage Left Theater production of “The Jungle Book: A Musical Adaptation” composing an original score for that show. He performed in a variety of venues, including The House of Blues at Walt Disney World, Hard Rock Live Orlando, The Bamboo Room, Freebird Live and more.

Named 2006 “Songwriter of the Year” by the Songwriters Showcases of America (with a 2007 “Song of the Year” award for “Crazy Feels Like” from the album Dulcimer Rock), Bing has become a regularly featured artist at festivals, fairs, concert halls, pubs, clubs, cafes, house concerts and other venues from California to Connecticut. Alongside his performing career, Bing has become a popular instructor of the mountain dulcimer and Native American flute.

Cathy Barton and Dave Para

For 25 years Cathy Barton and Dave Para have performed a variety of vocal and instrumental music. Celebrating the musical traditions and folklife of Missouri and the Ozarks in festivals, clubs, concert halls, schools and studios across the U.S. and Europe, their audiences are as diverse as their repertoire. Dave and Cathy play several stringed instruments including hammered and fretted dulcimers, banjo, guitar and autoharp, as well as “found” instruments like bones, spoons, mouthbow and leaf.

Their concerts present lively dance-tunes to old ballads and new songs, collected in their home region. They conduct instrumental workshops as well as workshops about songs from the Civil War, from American rivers, old gospel songs, children’s songs and Christmas music.

A recognized master of the frailing banjo style, Cathy has twice won the Tennessee Old-Time Banjo Championship. The late Roy Acuff often called her his “favorite banjo player” because her playing reminded him of earlier country music sounds. She also toured with Ramona (Mrs. Grandpa) Jones and played at her dinner theater.

I love birds. Wild or tame, they delight me. Recently, I sat on the patio enjoying a spring morning. Birds sang and a cool breeze whipped the smell of freshly mowed grass across Pecan Plantation’s 6th golf tee. Several birds fluttered around my water fountain, when this wonderful, little bird hopped up to see me. I think she was on her way shopping or perhaps to the bank and I was in her path. She hopped up on the glider where I sat and then skipped behind my back. I turned my head and she hopped down to the ground.

I thought she was gone, when suddenly she jumped up on my lap, tilted her head with a quizzical glance at me and then sweetly left a deposit on my leg. A few minutes later, she returned. I hoped she would get in my lap again but my dog scared her away.

After a few moments of research, I knew it was a Tufted Titmouse. I wish you could see how beautiful this little gray bird is in person. Actually, you can. There are so many great bird-watching sites in this area besides my backyard. Acton Nature Center is just one.

Don’t miss the Texas State Dulcimer Festival in Glen Rose. This is excellent family fun and it‘s all free. The Rio Brazos Music Hall is offering dance lessons and their April line up of talent is excellent. Don’t miss it.

Many of you have mentioned to me, either in person or by email, that you too are hooked on watching the eagle live-cam. I have promised a few readers to print the website again.  www.ustream.tv/decoraheagles. The eggs will be hatched by the time this issue is on the streets.

One of my favorite bird stories explains Easter in a way that even little ones can understand. The story goes that a farmer started his morning the same each Sunday. His wife dressed, ate and begged him to join her for church. He mumbled regret about too much work and admitted that he didn’t understand her belief and saw no reason to pretend he did. Why would anyone believe a story about a God coming to earth as a man to die on a cross? One Sunday near Easter, an unusually late, cold-front blew across the farm. The farmer woke early to check on the stock. He had a second cup of coffee and watched the snow fall. Then he noticed a few birds huddled under the eaves of the house. This small bird was a variety that didn’t stay in the area all year. For some reason it hadn’t headed south for this cold blast. The farmer knew the birds wouldn’t make it through the night. He decided to open the barn doors for them to fly into its warmth. But the birds stayed huddled in the cold. Then he scattered breadcrumbs toward the barn. The birds still didn’t move. He threw rocks and yelled, flapping his arms like a crazy man. The birds fluttered and then returned to what they thought was safety.

Frustrated, the farmer looked around and tried to think. “If only I could find a way to tell them to go to the barn,” he said to himself. “If only I could become a bird for a moment in time and show them how to be saved.”

Just then the church bells echoed across the snow covered fields. Suddenly the farmer understood. His wife dressed warm to drive to the church as always, but today, the farmer joined her. Now he understood why God became a man. And yes, he left the barn door open.

I hope you know that God became a man to show He loves us. Have a blessed Easter and spring.

Spring produces the urge to dig in the dirt and plant beautiful gardens. Guerin Nurseries has always made it easy. Now they make it fun with multiple shops nestled into over 40,000 square feet of greenhouses, offering everything from pansy to purses and trees to treasures.

Guerin Nurseries, owned by Phyllis and Glenn Guerin, has been making Granbury/Acton beautiful for over 30 years. Phyllis shares their philosophy:

“If you do what you like and like what you do, it shows.” It’s certainly evident that Phyllis and Glenn like what they do as Guerin’s continues to expand, with more plans for the future.

Guerin Nurseries started as a wholesale grower, but because of customer demands, it transformed into a retail operation known for its extensive selection of perennials.

“By growing these perennials, along with many other varieties, right on the premises, we are able to insure that only nurtured, healthy plants are sold to customers,” Glenn adds.

When you drive up to Guerin’s spacious parking area, it’s hard to realize there are seven beautiful acres. You can leisurely shop in the main greenhouse with 26,000 square feet of plants – the largest greenhouse in the metroplex area.

The new tropical greenhouse offers a wide selection of ferns, palms, bougainvilleas, alamandas, passion vines, bird of paradise and much more. Perfect for your pool or bringing the outdoors to your sunroom.

To keep your garden and lawn in top shape, stop in the Rustic Store for soils, mulches, fertilizers, insecticides and a complete line of organics.

Need to add some shade to your yard this summer? Then visit the tree and shrub area where you can select from many varieties of large trees.

Don’t miss the experience of the Home Store with a huge selection of beautiful items for you and your home. Give your taste buds a treat from the gourmet foods section, such as recently added flavored coffee beans and blended teas sold by the ounce. The Home Store also offers condiments, jellies, relishes, mixes and more.

While your husband shops for another tool, you can accessorize with jewelry, designer handbags, wallets, watches and scarves. Or you might select from colognes, candles and soaps. Add the finishing touch with home décor, pillows, lamps, decorative fans, artwork and mirrors. Before you leave, grab some creative inspiration from a gardening book or cookbook.

After shopping for yourself, pick up something for those you love. With so many choices, nothing makes a better gift for a special event or holiday than a gift card from Guerin Nurseries.

Don’t miss the popular Guerin Nurseries’ Anniversary Celebration with free hot dogs and beer. Lots of folks come out to help Phyllis and Glenn mark another year in the community.

The Guerins give back to the community through their work with Happy Hill Farm Academy, Susan G. Komen, Senior Source and the Alzheimer’s Association to name a few. Each year, Guerin Nurseries grows and donates the spring and fall colors planted at Happy Hill Farm Academy.

Even though Guerin’s has changed so much in the past few years, Phyllis and Glenn plan to add even more wonderful products. Expanding the Home Store with an outdoor room and house patio furniture, pottery, fountains and garden art is first on their list and then build an outdoor eatery – maybe steaks or hamburgers.

Treat your spring fever with a visit to Guerin Nurseries where you’ll be greeted by a friendly, helpful staff, ready to answer your questions and load your purchases in your car. Visit Guerin’s where everyone likes what they do. It shows!

The Super Shopper Quiz

Answer the following quiz with a 1 if never, a 2 if sometimes, a 3 if most of the time, a 4 if always and a 5 if you would trade your dear, sweet grandmother on for a gold credit card with unlimited credit.

__ You get goose bumps when you see a red “Sale” sign.

__ “75% off Sales” makes you exceed the speed limit.

__ You leap over small boutiques in a single bound.

__  You like to get all your Christmas shopping done early in the year.

__  You love kids and want to help out a great cause like Happy Hill Academy.

TOTAL   ____

If your total on this quiz was more than 4 you are perfect for the Granbury 2nd Annual Shopping Tournament on May 4 and 5. Create a Shopping Team Foursome and make this Girlfriend Getaway count for more. Guy teams are not only welcome, they are encouraged to challenge the girls with an “anything you can do I can do better” bet. Be sure to add a team name and costumes for serious fun! Create a poem, rap song or slogan. Strut your stuff!

This is competitive shopping for a cause and your tax deductible donation of only $25 per shopper registers you for the tournament, a maximum of 4 shoppers per team. The FUN for you and a FUNdraiser benefiting Happy Hill Farm Academy begins on May 4th with Preview Parties (not required, but lots of fun) and May 5th – Tournament Day! Participating stores offer discounts to registered Tournament Shoppers.

Granbury is the FUN shopping destination in North Central Texas. You can’t beat the fun, GREAT shopping discounts, refreshments at every store (Friday night & all day Saturday), and the wonderful prizes. Registering for the Granbury Shopping Tournament can be done online with a $25 fee per team member, safe, secure and easy. Visit  www.shopgranburytx.com and click on the Happy Hill Farm link below the “Submit” button to pay registration fees. Please feel free to give us a call at 817.326.1439 if you need help or would like to register over the phone.

Categories include:

• 1st & 2nd place Teams which accumulate the most points.

• 1st & 2nd place Teams for the Cutest Team.

• #1 Big Spender Shopper

• The Heart Award

• Ms. Congeniality – Who brought the most teams to the Tournament

• Shopper who came the Farthest

• 1st, 2nd & 3rd place Best Stores

• Drawings for prizes from every participating store

Schedule of Events

May 4th

Preview Parties at participating stores who are extending their evening hours for your shopping pleasure.

May 5th

9 am - 10 am - Kickoff Breakfast

10 am - 5 pm - Shotgun start. On your Mark, Get Set, Shop!

5 pm - 6:45 pm - Reception/ Awards Dinner to help you wind down from the exciting day. 

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