Smoke Signals and other news
Let’s welcome home Byhalia Alderman Mike Hamblin. Hamblin has been very sick and in the hospital for over 100 days. Church members and people in the community have missed him and have kepted him in their prayers for a full recovery. Hamblin was out and about last week after returning home from Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Rehab, in Nashville, Tenn. Alderman William Rose and others visited Hamblin while he was at Little Moo’s Burgers and Treats. We are glad you are home even though there may be many days of recovery still ahead,
Eight hummingbirds visit my feeders daily. The hummers are thirsty. They have consumed four to eight cups of `nectar’ daily. They are entertaining to watch. They fly away quickly when I open my door but are back just as fast, ignoring my presence.
Another opportunity for people-watching came about last week as I sat waiting for a doctor’s appointment. The older generation sit and read magazines while others look at their smartphones. There was one or more catching up on some sleep. One person answered their phone, and talking loudly made it easy for everyone to hear what he was discussing.
It wasn’t long before it was my turn to walk back to see my doctor. My news wasn’t great, but nothing that wasn’t expected. I see more tests in the near future as I battle a disease I have had for many years. If I follow the proper diet and avoid my newfound food allergies, my choice of foods becomes relatively limited. These restrictions are hard on a person like me who loves to eat. I will admit that I have eaten whatever came my way in the last few months since knee surgery. Still, I must get back on the straight and narrow for the sake of my health. No processed foods (hot dogs, bologna, spam, soft cheeses), little fried foods, no sugar, no strawberries, bananas, avocado, tomatoes, bacon, sausage, ham, and the list goes on. I’m not even allowed to chew gum. There are a few good rules, like drinking whole milk and using butter instead of oleo. I still can enjoy my loaded teas and protein shakes from Byhalia Nutrition.
Marshall County baseball comes to an end for the season this week. Some teams have had an undefeated season, while others have not won a game. When they come off the fields, you cannot tell which has won or which has lost. They could have played one of the most intense and competitive games against each other, but coming off the field, they walked together to the concession stand, talking about the game and making plans.
Every child who completed the season received an award of some type. The T-ballers got adorable trophies, while every other child got a shiny ring reflecting where their team finished in the league or the tournament. The Marshall County Board of Supervisors donation made the awards possible.
While the game is about the kids, many volunteers behind the scenes make it all come together. Some volunteer their time to coach, while others volunteer to prepare the fields by cutting the grass, dragging the fields, lining the fields, and repairing fences. Then, there are volunteers who clean bathrooms, pick up trash, stock the concession stand, and prepare the food. Some volunteers select and purchase equipment and uniforms, and then some do the paperwork. Please stop and thank those who volunteer and support the Marshall County Sports Association. Volunteering and working together make it all come together for the kids.
What about the umpires? Yes, they get paid, but if you see one, please stop and take a minute to thank them, too.
Please share your news with me at jchwagg@gmail.com or text or call 901-246-8843. You can message me on Facebook as Clair Wagg.