A Celebration of Creativity, Community, and Nature

This week, the Southern New Hampshire Festival of Trees once again transformed the venue into a sparkling holiday forest—each tree reflecting a unique personality and theme. Among them, one tree quietly captured the admiration of many: the Pelham Pathways “Inspiring Outdoor Active Living” tree.

What made our tree special wasn’t elaborate materials or a professional designer.
It was heart.

Every ornament—created on short notice and with zero budget—was handmade by volunteers who poured creativity, joy, and love into every detail. The result was a warm, woodland-themed masterpiece that reflected both the beauty of nature and the mission of Pelham Pathways.

A Tree Built with Heart, Imagination, and Nature

A closer look at the branches revealed a charming woodland world:

• tiny owls tucked into the boughs like forest visitors
• pinecones transformed into sweet little birds
• whimsical gnomes, mushrooms, and woodland creatures
• soft natural textures, ribbons, and rustic handmade touches
• gold and silver decorated pickleballs—our playful nod to Pelham’s thriving pickleball community
• a magnificent, fluffy white owl perched proudly at the top (thank you, Gretchen Brunnelle!)

Each piece invited visitors to pause, smile, and appreciate how simple materials—pinecones, fabric scraps, wood, ribbon, imagination—can become something magical when created with care.

The Women Behind the Magic

This beautiful display existed because several Pelham Pathways members stepped forward—quickly and creatively—to bring the idea to life.

A heartfelt thank-you to:

• Celine Soucy, who created the majority of the ornaments
• Joy Turner, who co-led the effort and coordinated countless details
• Lynne Hildreth, Linda Irish-Simpson, Sue Miranda, and Michelle Cooke, who assembled, decorated, donated gifts, and brought joy and craftsmanship to every corner of the display
• Jean Soucy, Celine’s Dad, who built the charming birdhouse displayed as one of the gifts beneath the tree

Every ornament, every bow, every handmade contribution was a testament to the dedication of our members. Many organizations purchase décor or hire designers—our tree was built entirely by volunteers who gave their time and talent. That authenticity made it shine.

A Special Community Connection

A special thank-you to Roger Levasseur, who beautifully decorated his tree at Celebration Park on 8 Nashua Road—another example of how the spirit of outdoor living, kindness, and creativity continues to grow in our community.

Looking Ahead: A 2026 Community Craft Night

This year’s success has inspired an exciting idea for next year:
a Pelham Pathways Craft Night (or daytime craft gathering) in 2026!

This would give members who enjoy crafting a chance to:

• create ornaments together
• share ideas and materials
• enjoy a fun, social, creative gathering
• help design the 2026 Festival of Trees submission

Crafting with nature slows us down and reconnects us to the beauty around us. And families are always amazed by how a few simple natural materials—pinecones, twigs, fabric, dried leaves—can be transformed into something extraordinary. We welcome your thoughts and suggestions as we begin planning.

Thank You to Our Members

Our Festival of Trees submission wasn’t just a tree—it was a celebration of creativity, generosity, and community spirit.

To everyone who:

• crafted ornaments
• donated gifts or materials
• helped assemble the display
• visited the event
• or simply cheered us on—
  thank you.

Your enthusiasm continues to make Pelham Pathways the heart of outdoor living, conservation, creativity, and community connection in Pelham.

Wishing you a holiday season filled with peace, gratitude, and the quiet beauty of nature.

Warmly,
Yvonne