By KRISTI MAYFIELD
At the White Blossom Ranch along Highway 120 just east of Oakdale, the Christmas spirit was everywhere to be found this past weekend. From the Christmas crafts to Santa and Mrs. Claus visiting with youngsters in the beautifully festive barn, it was a fun filled way to kick off the holiday season. Guests were treated to apple cider and hot chocolate while they walked around the ranch on Saturday, Nov. 16 to see the offerings of a variety of vendors and sample various goodies such as the cookies from Sugar Smooches and M & M Brittany Homemade Gourmet Dog Treats.
As woodworker Mark Tillotson spoke with some of his customers, he noted that events like this are a great opportunity to share the magic of the season while also picking up some unique things for the home. Tillotson, realtor by day and woodworking artist part-time, started out making things for family members and then branched out into making items to take to events like this. Tillotson now makes everything from Christmas trees that hold ornaments to angels to large nativity scenes.
In addition to being a fun and festive way to start the holiday season, this event also featured a toy donation site for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves annual Toys for Tots drive. Marine veteran Bill Johnson, staffing the collection booth, spoke to how much he appreciated people coming out to support the local vendors while also helping to make a child’s Christmas a whole lot brighter.
Santa and Mrs. Claus greeted their guests in the barn, surrounded by Christmas trees and festive decorations while The Grinch held court outside. But with the amount of toys donated, the Grinch may have seen his heart grow a few sizes; as those attending the Christmas in the Barn got into the giving spirit to aid the toy drive.
