We're All Ladies Here

I've gone and become a part of an association. I got a wild hair! This would be my first association so I guess I am officially part of the community now. Jen joined last year and spread the word and Kelly and I joined with her this year. It's the Stonebridge Ranch Ladies Association (SRLA) working to benefit Collin County but focused mostly in McKinney. I am super excited! It looks like a great mix of fun and community service - like last night. We met at Landon Wineries on the square in downtown McKinney for wine tasting. Before the bottles were uncorked, though, we had two organizations speak to thank the SLRA for what they do and to educate us on their cause. The first one was a camp for autistic children which SRLA provided "scholarships" for four children to attend. The other speakers were with a school called Serenity High, which most of us hadn't even heard about.

Serenity High is one of a few (if not just two) of this type of school in Texas - another being in Houston - but Serenity High is Texas' only public recovery high school and kids come from all over in hopes of getting in. It was modeled after Minnesota's Sobriety High. Apparently Minnesota leaves all the other states in their dust when it comes to drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation. And one of the presentors was none other than Neil Sperry! I didn't realize that he was involved in this part of the community! He has a personal tie with drug addiction and is one of the founding memebers of the high school. If you are not familiar with Neil Sperry, he is one of Texas' top gardeners - check out the Neil Sperry link above to find out more. I really get a kick out of his dry, to-the-point demeanor and his WEALTH of knowledge!

He took off too fast at the end for me to bombard him with gardening questions...but that may not have been SLRA ettiquette anyway since he was there to talk about his wonderful school - you know, I'd hate to get kicked out at my first meeting. ;) Last night also benefitted the food pantry. They asked for powered milk and peanut butter. And also gently used towels for...I can't remember which place! Some member I am. So I got to raid our linen closet for the rejects. At first I didn't think I was old enough to have any extra towels but after I got to digging I found some that I guess were from college.

Anyway, SRLA helps fund many community outreach projects and I can't wait to see what this year brings. We meet the second Monday of each month so Josh is going to work with me to leave work earlier than normal so I can go do my thang. I am very excited! Of course I'll keep you posted!