Presidents Message Jan-Feb 2024

Welcome –

The Woman’s National Farm and Garden Association has been around in the U.S. since 1914.  Through the past century it has played a vital role in training women to support themselves through agriculture and horticulture.  Over the years, its operation has evolved with the times.  Currently, WNF&GA promotes education, conservation, and community beautification.  Its activities include as vast array of things to do from within our local areas to supporting women facing challenges throughout the world – – all while focusing on agriculture and horticultural.

Anyone will find themselves able to fit in with our organization and be able to pursue their interests.  Please join a branch meeting near you and come see what we are all about and explore this website for more information. You can also find us on Facebook.  We welcome new members who want to improve their community, learn more about gardening and farming, and forge rewarding friendships with like-minded members.

“Anything you like to do, we have a place for you.”

If you have questions, feel free to contact me at pb@chartermi.net or 989-284-3455.  I would love to share more information with you.

 

Patty Burnside, National President 2022 – 2024

Woman’s National Farm and Garden Association

President’s Message Nov-Dec 2023

Happy Holidays and Seasons’ Greetings

Although very busy and somewhat stressful, this is my favorite
time of the year. Forget about shopping, decorating, wrapping,
partying, sending cards, baking, and all the other required or
associated “__ing’s.” This, to me, is a period to be immersed in the
spirit of kindness, peace, human connections, magic, charity, warmth,
and blessings. I love evenings with hot cocoa, a cozy fire, a soft fleece
blanket, my dog by me, the tree glowing, and watching a schmaltzy
Hallmark movie. Even with all the holiday hubbub, it seems like a
time to slow down spiritually and appreciate the simpler things in life.
On Christmas Eve, my church holds a candlelight service which really
brings these emotions to full fruition.
Let us be mindful of others throughout the world and pray that
they may be free of worry or want. No matter what your holiday
traditions are, no matter what your religion is, no matter how you
feel about the holidays – – I wish you a cheerful season filled with
your favorite things and surrounded by loving friends and family.

Patty Burnside, WNF&GA President, 2022-2024

President’s Message May-June 2023

“We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course, it’s our garden that is really nurturing us.” Jenny Uglow

Gardening truly does nurture our souls from the first green peeping through the snow to the last flower wilting from frost.  As the Beatles sang “It’s a magical mystery tour.”  Of course, we all know the science and botany behind gardening, but the flora that Mother Nature produces is magical.  Overnight, spectacular flowers appear on stems that were bare the day before.  And, lucky us, we get to “tour” through all the beautiful trees, shrubs, plants, and flowers everywhere we travel during summer.

Not only do we enjoy the fruits of our labor in our own yards and gardens, but we can also delight in all the public gardens thanks to gardeners like members of WNF&GA and other gardening groups.  Gardens bring such joy and elevate everyone’s spirit all year long – – but especially during summer.

Thank you, fellow gardeners, for planning and maintaining all the gardens throughout our communities.  Your efforts affect and influence more people than you probably imagine.  So, keep on promoting beautification, conservation, and education in your hometowns while admiring the works that Mother Nature provides to us that require no work on our part.  They just magically appear year after year.

Patty Burnside
WNF&GA National President, 2022-2024
The full May – June newsletter may be accessed in the MEMBERS section.