Smoke Signals and other news
A week of beautiful weather in August. Front porch sitting can be enjoyed. Hummingbird watching is delightful as they seem to be especially active and making the most of the break in the temperature. My dog, Charlie, is loving being able to lay in the sun without roasting. I was able to cut my entire yard without too much discomfort.
Still the physical therapy continues but I can see the end in sight. This CMP machine should be returned to the company one day this week. I can’t say I will miss it. Four-and-one half hours spent on it every day is not something I would want to continue. My doctor did tell me this week that sometimes you can do the surgery, all the rehab, the closed manipulation, and the CMP machine and still not have the range of motion you would want to have. Honestly, if this is the best it gets, then I will have to live with it. At least most of the pain is gone.
Though Carey Crain was not a Byhalia resident, she was a great influence on so many of our children whom she taught through the years including my youngest child, nephews, and many children of my friends. She was a dedicated teacher who expected each of her students to give their best under her direction. Many people got to travel overseas, including two of my children, due to the great leadership and organizational skills she displayed. Prayers go out to her family in the loss of Carey.
My family also lost a great man this week, Brown Peyton, of Tate County. He was my mother’s double first cousin and one of the sweetest men I ever knew. He was a teacher at Independence High School for many years, teaching cabinet making and other woodworking skills. He and one of his brothers built my cabinets for my kitchen and bathrooms many years ago. I will always treasure them. Sadly, I did not get to attend his funeral. My brother and his wife did and said the line for visitation was out the door when they arrived and was still out the door twenty minutes after time for the service to start. This speaks volumes for his character and the life he lived.
On Thursday of last week, I had the pleasure of having lunch with a former schoolmate and friend, Martha Bennett Gates. We had a delightful time reminiscing about school days and our parents who worked together at what was commonly known as the “mop factory,” actually Gem, Inc. I encourage you, if you are in a position to do so, to make connections with old friends and take the time to get together for that cup of coffee or lunch. We often say, “We need to get together,” but fail to make the time.
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.