The holiday boutique had its origins about 50 years ago, and it began as the Children’s Market, or C-Mart. Barbara Thormahlen wanted to provide a way for young children to buy gifts for their family members. The kids arrived with their gift lists and dollar bills and volunteers helped them with their choices, but parents were not allowed. For many years Barbara’s C-Mart was such a success, and so many lovely gifts were donated, that Barbara eventually gave in to the adults and let them come and ‘shop’ too.
The Holiday Gift Boutique, later the Jewelry Boutique, expanded under Barbara’s leadership with the ongoing help of dear friends who are no longer with us like Midge Lanouette and Jean Northup, and became one of the most anticipated events of our Church year. Because of this continuous contribution to our Church, among others, Barbara and Hal Thormahlen were recognized with the Very Fine Award several years ago. It was only a few years ago that Barbara turned over the leadership of the Boutique.
And I did confirm with Barbara that it was her mother who sewed those aprons that we have been wearing all these years….just a little of our history — and a celebration of one of our treasures — Barbara Thormahlen.