Smoke Signals and other news
Someone said the first day of Fall was this week, but I think Fall did not get the message just yet. Temperatures in the nineties just don’t make me think fall, but I understand the cooler weather is on the way.
Byhalia ball fields have been alive the past week with adult coed softball on Mondays and Thursdays and kid’s soccer on Tuesdays and Fridays with practices whenever they can be squeezed into the schedule. Other than the fire ants, mosquitoes, and army worms, everyone is having a great time. This a reminder for all visitors-absolutely no tobacco products or alcohol allowed on the property. You will be gently ask to dispose of either or leave the premises.
Byhalia High School held a Decades Reunion on Saturday night with attendees from 1952 through 1969. Ninety-four alumni and guests made their way to Byhalia. The oldest there graduated in 1952. One and her guest came all the way from California, one from Georgia, one from Texas. There were other attendees from Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and Arkansas. The evening, though very warm, was enjoyed by all. Many thanks to those who worked so hard to make this event a reality. The hardest part of this for me was working from a list of a reunion we had twenty years ago and realizing just how many of our schoolmates had either passed away or were physically unable to attend due to their health or the health of their spouses. Treasure your friends. Time is not on our side.
Some of you know that I have battled liver disease for many years and have participated in several clinical trials, some of which were beneficial. My children have asked why I participate in these. My answer is always that, while it may or may not benefit me, it could save someone else’s life someday, even theirs. One trial I participated in proved to be useful and is now being used to treat the condition I have. I have not continued to use the medication since the cost of it is prohibitive. I do choose carefully the ones I take part in and always under my trusted doctor’s guidance and recommendations. I have begun a journey to see if I qualify for yet another trial. Preliminary testing is complete and this week I will have another MRI. If these tests confirm that
I indeed qualify (and it is actually good if I do not), the next step will be the dreaded liver biopsy. I have endured three of these and can assure you they have been the most painful test I have encountered to date.
At least eight of my hummingbirds have left to fly south. About four are still feeding regularly. I’m sure they will join their friends soon. The quantity of food I have to put out has dropped significantly and soon I will take down all but one feeder. It will stay up into October for those who stop for refreshments on their journey south.
I would love to report your news, activities, etc. Please share your news with me either at jchwagg@gmail.com or text or call 901 246-8843. You can message me on Facebook as Clair Wagg.