While the weather may be a bit dreary now as fall turns into winter, let’s take a moment to look back at this past spring, when our gardens were flourishing and the beauty of nature was in full bloom. The 10th Annual Dallas County Master Gardener Association (DCMGA) Garden Tour was one such event that brought our community together to celebrate and nurture that beauty, thanks in no small part to the efforts of Lakewood neighbors Elaine Webster and 

This past May, Elaine and Margaret co-chaired the biennial DCMGA Garden Tour, a widely anticipated event that showcases stunning Dallas gardens and raises funds for the organization’s educational and outreach programs. As long-time gardeners and East Dallas residents, Elaine and Margaret poured their hearts into this project, ensuring its success and its role in continuing to beautify our neighborhoods.

The tour featured eight magnificent gardens, each a testament to the care and creativity of local Master Gardeners. From public gardens around White Rock Lake to private home gardens that opened their gates to visitors, the event was a perfect opportunity to celebrate the community’s green spaces. The tour also included educational speakers and activities, which helped raise awareness about sustainable gardening practices, the importance of native plants, and pollinator-friendly spaces. Not only did the tour surpass prior events in attendance, but it also was the most successful fundraising Garden Tour to date for the DCMGA—funds that will go back into maintaining and expanding these community projects.

Elaine and Margaret both share a passion for making East Dallas a more beautiful, sustainable place. Margaret, who has lived in Lakewood for over 40 years, says, “Gardening allows me to connect with the community while doing something I love. Working with DCMGA has been an incredible way to give back.” In addition to her work with the Garden Tour, Margaret is involved in several other projects, including maintaining the SoPac Trails Pollinator Garden and volunteering for the Heart of Texas Pet Therapy program at CC Young.

Elaine has also found her passion in gardening. She volunteers regularly at the Juliette Fowler Communities, where she works with residents to plant and maintain pollinator gardens, including a Monarch Way Station. During the Texas State Fair, she serves as a docent at the Texas Discovery Gardens, educating visitors about the importance of native plants. "After retiring, I wanted to give back to the community. Gardening has allowed me to do that while helping educate others, as well as work towards protecting and feeding our North Texas wildlife- and people," says Elaine.

As we reflect during this season of giving, it’s the tireless work of volunteers like Elaine and Margaret that helps keep our community thriving. Their efforts this past spring brought neighbors together to share the beauty of our gardens, and their work throughout the year continues to make East Dallas a greener, more vibrant place to live. Even as the weather cools, we’re grateful for their dedication in keeping our gardens—and our community—flourishing year-round.