Smoke Signals and other news
The week, as has the year, has gone quickly. For Ellen’s family to come to Mississippi for our family Christmas, presents arrived on Saturday morning at their house. Landon and Olivia along with Mom and Dad got several nice presents. Grammy and even the dogs were not left out. My Charlie was not very impressed with the matching socks he and I got but then he has never been one to like to be dressed up. I’ve bought him sweaters that he takes off faster than I can put one on him. The kids were given most of the day to explore their new gifts before time to pick up and pack for the trip to Mississippi.
We drove to Mississippi on Sunday, stopping at Chuey’s in Birmingham for dinner. If you are a fan of Mexican foods and you are ever in a city fortunate enough to have one, it is definitely worth the dining experience. I know there is one in Little Rock, Birmingham, Atlanta, and Nashville. Go hungry and enjoy.
For those who follow the struggles of my Olivia, you can be proud of her with me. She volunteered to sing with two friends in their school talent show and stood on that stage and sang loud and clear. This show doesn’t give “places” but the better the act the closer they were placed to the end of the show. Her group was the next to last act.
Now that football season is over for Landon, he has ventured into wrestling. This is another new sport for which I must learn the rules. He seems to have a natural talent for this and has won most of his matches even against those who have wrestled longer. It is hard on mom and Grammy to watch these matches but as long as he is enjoying it, we will endure.
Mississippi family Christmas for us has long taken place on Christmas Eve. We were set to go to my daughter Emily’s home. Her husband became ill and to keep from exposing everyone, we moved to another location. Only the kids receive gifts now as there are so many of us. The college kids prefer money, but I don’t just hand them cash. I find some type of “puzzle” box that they must work to open to claim the treasure inside. This year’s was the best yet and kept them busy for a while. We did start what I hope to become a new tradition by playing a couple of Christmas themed games. None of us did very well, but there was much laughter.
Work on the house continues. New flooring is down in the living room and dining area. Some painting has been accomplished. Repairs have been made to walls that pets had destroyed over the years. Cleaning that could be done to rid the house of the “construction” dust has taken place though I’m sure it will have to be done again. The best part is I won’t fall through the floors.
As the new year arrives and the opportunity to make new year’s resolutions loom before us, what will your plan be? I’m not big on making resolutions. I don’t have many bad habits to break. As with many, weight loss and exercise are important for my health and I am slowly accomplishing that. Continuing toward the goal of “finishing” this house and working on mental, health, and spiritual areas are always top priorities. Staying active mentally and physically are still possible for me.
To my readers, thank you for your support this year. Writing this column was never something I thought I would do, but it has been enjoyable. 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.