Smoke Signals and other news
For so many of our county and neighboring counties residents, the struggles of the ice storm are far from over. Homes and businesses are still without power, trees are down, roofs collapsed, pipes are burst, perishable foods were lost, income was lost when people could not work, our small businesses lost income when they were barely making it already. Yet through all the devastation, the good in people still has shown through. Neighbors have helped neighbors clean up. Neighbors have opened their homes to neighbors. Those who had the ability to cook in large quantities have done so and helped feed those who were hungry. Those with ability to travel have helped others get to where they needed to be. That is only a part of what makes our county special. It was especially hard for me not to be out helping.
Again, I have still been blessed to not lose power, heat, or water and have had more than enough food. I have cooked (and eaten) old and new recipes. I napped whenever it seemed appropriate, read a book, worked on my taxes, checked on friends and relatives, watched more tv than usual, and cleaned out a few drawers and the pantry. A friend broke up the ice on my ramp. I finally left the house on Tuesday of last week. I still had a rental car until Monday of this week. It was a four-wheel drive jeep and it did not hesitate to take on the ice/snow that was left. I am supposed to get my car back on Monday. I will be glad to have it back. It’s been two long months since the supposed minimal damage accident. I only thought I understood the ins and outs of accidents/insurance before this. Grants Body Shop has been great – the insurance company not so much.
The grandson and family from Water Valley were able to return home on Thursday night when their power was restored. They did not have any frozen pipes. My son’s house is much quieter now. Mary Claire returned to Ole Miss Wednesday. The fog was so thick Tuesday night that she waited one more day. Her classes were scheduled to start back on Monday. Newly graduated mechanical engineer, Allan, has one week on his new job under his belt. He purchased a new car this week. The one he drove all through college was well-loved, but he needed an updated one. Let the adulting begin.
Hickory Flat and Holly Springs will begin registration for Spring baseball, softball, and T- ball this week. Potts Camp has already begun registration. I have had no word from Byhalia. All communities are behind in registration due to the weather. Spring will come and kids will need to be outdoors. Take the time to register your children. There is so much more to the game than just rules and skills.
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.