The Many Hands of the Village Country Fair 2006

"Many hands make light work" would be a very appropriate statement for the Village Country Fair, but would also be an understatement. The work of 'many hands', many creative minds, many caring hearts and Christian souls showed itself simply by walking into the church that Friday and Saturday.

Not one of us could make this as good as it was without each other and God's presence as we dealt with acceptance, diversity, patience, and supportive understanding of each other.

If you visited the Fair you would see the uniqueness of each shop, each one with an obvious identity and purpose. The customers actually lingered longer in the shops because of the positive atmosphere.

Of course the beginning of the journey was our most welcoming Greeter into lovely Daisy Mae's Plant Shop, then outside to Grandpa's Tool Shed. Come back inside and down the hall to Grandma's Attic if you can get in - it was so crowded!

Grandma's Kitchen and the Sugar Plum Shoppe were overloaded with baked goods, preservatives, nuts and sweets. They sold every item before the Fair was over.

Ye Olde Book Shoppe functioned like a cozy organized library that welcomed every age from children on their knees to someone in the rocking chair to parents standing with loads of books in their arms to buy.

The Christmas Shoppe was full of colourful ornaments and mulberry scented candles covering the lovely red linen and the 'Partridge in a Pear Tree' Christmas tree for sale-Sold!

The General Store looked like a fancy store with Art on the walls, white linen on the tables and fancy runners to match the wallpaper and 'God's creation' quilt as a centerpiece.

A lot of organizing required but a great sale was had. We had two new shops this year, Aunt Millie's Craft Supplies Co.- with lots of craft kits and fabric; and Grandpa's Tool Shed that fitted right 'in' or 'out' stepped into new realms of interest. Yes, there were more male customers this year!!

The Bird House Café's new decorative theme was definitely an added feature with birds accompanying the chatter of the patrons who enjoyed good food and efficient service.

There were so many keen volunteer hands to participate that it seemed the work was light with a lot of fellowship, harmony and happiness. We depended a lot on our 'floaters' this year and they were very much appreciated in their flexibility and endurance. Once one shop was done they went on to the next duty to be done. The shop staff persevered until every last piece was in place and priced. Once again, the visual subliminal reminders throughout the shops and the smiles on the staffs' faces reminded shoppers that they were at a 'church country fair'.

Thanks to all of the volunteers, donators and shoppers who made this Village Country Fair a 'success'.

Karen Siddall and Cindy Similas


From this update on the 2006 Village Country Fair, go to our Calendar of events to follow our ongoing activities >>>