By Brandie Majeau
Thorhild Library’s annual Spring Plant Exchange and Bake Sale once again
blossomed into much anticipated spring event and brought with it gardening enthusiasts
and locals who just like to browse and see what kind of horticultural treasures they can
find. True to its motto “bring a plant, exchange a plant, buy a plant” always provides a
perfect opportunity for residents to trade their surplus houseplants and perennials, while
hunting for new botanicals to add to their homes and gardens.
Throughout the day, guests dropped off their gardening extras and browsed the
tables of lush greenery, several people excitedly comandeering trays of tomatoes and
one couple on the hunt for purple irises. Many attendees relished the chance to swap
gardening tips, share stories and advide, and connect over a shared love of flowers and
gardening. The event, as always, also included a tempting bake sale offering sweet
treats, making it easy to reward oneself after a day of yard work in the spring sun.
The steady stream of patrons accentuated the event’s popularity, as people came
and went, filling the front lawn of the library grounds. The sense “spring is in the air” was
palpable, with local volunteers playing a crucial role in organizing and keeping the event
running smoothly. Their efforts became especially vital as the sky grew ominous and
dark clouds began to gather.
As the dark skies continued to move closer and build in its intensity, volunteers
sprang into action, quickly gathering up the remaining plants and securing them inside
the library just as a ferocious wind whipped out of nowhere and brought with it a cloud
of dust obscuring the town and eventually brought with it hail and torrential rain. The
event’s abrupt end didn’t dampen spirits, instead, it brought with it laughter and disbelief
over the sudden storm and gratitude that the day was so well attended that most baking
and plants had already been sold. For those who missed out, the library had made the
leftover plants available for purchase in the following days.
As the storm passed and the library settled into a quiet evening, organizers
reflected on another successful fundraiser. The proceeds of this annual event supports
library initiatives and proves that Thorhild Library (and the love of plants) continues to
grow.
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