Reach inside and bring a talent to the world: the story of a mouseís gift.In October, Phyllis Didleau, author of ìThe Little Manger Mouse,î presented the story of the birth of Jesus Christ from a mouseís perspective to the Black Forest Womenís Club.Story telling is part of the clubís nine yearly programs.ìToday, I want you to search your heart for the gift that God gave you,î Didleau said. She is a 30-year member of the Black Forest community who presents at childrenís birthdays and speaks at various churches.Motherís Home Publishing, located in a barn on Woodman Road, published ìThe Little Manger Mouse,î which was the 2010 bronze winner in the religion and spiritual category of the Moonbeam Childrenís book awards. The awards support childhood literacy and life-long reading and bring increased recognition to exemplary childrenís books and the authors.ìIt (the book) encourages little children to tell the story of Jesus,î Didleau said. ìIt is important for children and adults to use the gifts that God has put in them and never give up. Regardless of how old you are, always pursue the dream that God has put in your heart. Mine came at 75 years of age.îWith a 90-year history and 65 members, the club also provides services and donations to the community.ìIt is interesting to me that we all gather around and help each other,î said Cindy Winford, a member for 23 years. ìWe are the kind of people that have our fingers into various things in the community. We are a very close community here in Black Forest. We support so many communities.îClub projects include caretaking, beautifying the Eastonville Cemetery, supporting restoration of the Historic Black Forest Log School, caring for families in need, assisting Girl Scout troops and contributing to the Black Forest Cares food program.ìItís changed over the years from a womenís circle to a quaint, friendly group,î Winford said. ìWe have groups within the group such as the Red Head Group. We have longevity because we trust each other and welcome newcomers. We invite any woman in the Black Forest and surrounding area to join us ñ usually women that need personal support and friendship.îThe club meets at 9 a.m. the second Thursday of the month at Family of Christ Lutheran Church in Black Forest. For more information, e-mail BFHomeMakers@blackforest-co.com or visit http://mangermouse.com.
