Smoke Signals and other news
Will 2026 be all you want it to be? Will your job situation improve? What about your relationships, health, monetary status, spiritual health? What is important to you? That is where you will put your focus. Resolutions have a place, but it takes commitment and follow-through to make them of any benefit.
I am slowly recovering from whatever illness attacked my body. Only minimal coughing and runny nose continue to hang on. My energy levels and stamina are still low. At this point, I have no sense of smell. Did I have COVID? If so, I wasn’t as sick as the last time I had it, but still very sick and especially weak. So many are sick. Some will recover. For some it will be the end of their journey on earth. Again, in the last week, more people I knew have passed away. Some were sick. Some appeared healthy only a few days before. You cannot know your appointed time to die.
On a beautiful New Year’s Day, I was honored to be present when Bryson was the recipient of his long-awaited van. After months of fundraising and waiting, God showed up with the van he had handpicked for Bryson already. A wonderful group of bikers (Dream Bikers Biking for Children) made it happen.
Later that day my grandson took me to eat-just me. I was very surprised as he is married with 3 boys under 6 years old. The few times we get together to go out or even get together, it is with all of them which I also enjoy. This was a late afternoon lunch with adult conversation. That night I couldn’t decide why I was so exhausted so early. Could it be that it was the first day I had been up and on the go all day since my illness? The little dog and I went to bed early without any guilt.
I recently put my winter bird feeder out. I have had only a few visitors, which is rather unusual. One consistent visitor is a bright red cardinal. He doesn’t seem to mind he is basically alone at the feeder. I placed it under the eave of the house to help keep the food dry and offer a bit of shelter when they are feeding. I may have to move it back to the spot a bit further from the house.
Remember to support small businesses in your area. Shop local whenever you can. These businesses have invested in your town by opening their shops here. Many struggle to keep their doors open. Most offer unique items and friendly service. Byhalia offers a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, loaded tea shop, a donut shop, boutiques, a hardware store, and so many others. These business owners give back on a daily basis.
I would love to report your news. Call or text me at 901 246-8843, message me on Facebook at Clair Wagg, or email me at jchwagg@gmail.com.