A Note from our Co-Presidents:

CHRISTY WILSON and JANET EVANS

Grow Where You Are Planted

The close of one club year—and the beginning of another—offers a time to reflect, to appreciate, to learn, and to look forward to a new year. As we turn the page on the Club calendar, it feels less like an ending and more like the start of something new.

During the 2025–2026 year, our Club accomplished a great deal thanks to the energy, creativity, and dedication of so many members. We are deeply grateful to all who contributed their time and talents to make this year a success.

For a bird of paradise, the strength of the base and the long sheaths from which the flower emerges form a perch upon This year has also been a valuable opportunity for learning. We have come to better understand just how much our members value programs that are informative, practical, and led by outstanding speakers. Those elements are essential to our Club, and we are committed to raising the bar even higher in the coming year. We are already looking forward to a lineup of truly exceptional speakers.

We have also been reminded of something equally important: the value of fun. While education, gardening, and community involvement are at the core of VGCLJ, the friendships we share and the fellowship we enjoy are what truly bring the Club to life. While looking back is critical, it is looking ahead that energizes us. Over the summer, we will be working on plans for the coming year.  One of the biggest perks of our job is seeing some of the amazing gardens and properties that will be featured in next year's Members Garden Tour. 

We are also focusing on strengthening communication—through The Spindrifter, an updated website, expanded photographic archives, broader community outreach, and a more vibrant social media presence.

Some truly bespoke field trips--both domestic and international--are already on the drawing board.  I think you'll agree that these trips will be some of the best ever.

We hope you will share your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions. Listening to our members is the best way for us to understand what matters most and to guide the Club thoughtfully into the future.  There is no summer vacation for Co-Presidents, so please contact us anytime.

Just as we tend our gardens with care so they may flourish, we are committed to nurturing this Club—and its members—so that it may continue to grow and thrive.


Christy and Janet