Fielder’s Choice

It’s been a tough year.

And it appears it’s going to be a tough Thanksgiving.

I received a recent press release from the University of Mississippi Medical Center Office of Communications and Marketing.

It was headlined – “Could Thanksgiving gatherings be safe? Consider these tips.”

In the article, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is advising Americans about low, moderate and high risks for celebrating Thanksgiving.

Low risk activities, for example, include having a small dinner with only the people in your household.

Moderate risk activities, for example, include having a small indoor or outdoor dinner with friends and family who live in your community, following CDC recommendations on hosting gatherings.

High risk activities, for example, include attending large indoor gatherings with people from outside your household.

My family’s plan is to be isolated, not at home, but in a vacation location.

Here’s hoping you and your family can make the best of the COVID-19 situation during this holiday season.

Please, do all you can to follow the recommended guidelines and stay safe.

For me personally, during these challenging and frustrating times, I am trying to reflect on some blessings I normally might overlook.

I’m thankful for the stars. Thursday night, I walked outside with our dog Bella and the stars looked awesome.

I’m thankful for Dr. Pepper. I’ve tried to cut back to one or two a day

I’m thankful for The Andy Griffith Show. If I get home in time, I watch at least two episodes every afternoon. And I’ve seen them all bunches and bunches of times.

I’m thankful for leaves. I don’t like raking them, but they certainly are beautiful this time of year.

I’m thankful for small towns, like Holly Springs. We take care of one another.

I’m thankful for teachers, first responders, healthcare professionals and all of those who are on the frontlines each day during this pandemic.

I’m thankful for ink. It’s been in my veins since high school, when I developed a love for writing and newspapers. And this newspaper, your community paper, is still kicking and about to start its 156th year.

I’m thankful for Cocoa Krispies. I have a bowl almost every night before I go to bed.

I’m thankful for seafood, especially shrimp and oysters, and I hope to be eating some this week about the time you are reading this article.

I’m thankful for laughter. I’ve always tried to make others laugh, especially when they’re feeling down. And I appreciate others who do that for me.

I’m thankful for friends and family. Those are the people dearest to me, and they accept me, even with all my faults.

I’m thankful for banana pudding. It’s my favorite dessert. My mother’s was the best, but the substitutes aren’t too bad either.

I’m thankful for walks with Pam and our small dog Bella, who loves to run and jump in my arms.

From the Burlesons, happy Thanksgiving!