Goodness! December is here and the wind has a definite bite to it! I was sitting scrunched up under a blanket when I realized I hadn’t written a word for this column. My blanket is calling me, but so is this computer. I hope everyone had as wonderful a Thanksgiving as I did. I love this time of the year! I take time to thank God for my home and family, and this little community all year long, but to bring everything to a halt, and share with your loved ones; that is special.

My sister is coming down from Canada for Christmas. She will find our weather warm, but my Canadian blood has thinned out. I have never liked the cold, and now I can’t tolerate it. So for the young lady who wished I would go back to Canada and stay there. No way! Not going to happen.

It is part of that uncivil culture I mention from time to time. People ask you for your opinion, then when you give it; they want to send you back to wherever! At any rate, I’m going to have a super Christmas.

Dell Jolly had her son Richard in for Thanksgiving. He is due to return to Iraq in a few weeks. Our prayers and best wishes will go with him. I presume if he is going, so will many others. My son will most likely be gone next Christmas, so I will enjoy the gift of his presence this year.

I expect with our economy, gift giving will be a little lighter this year. I did not get up and attend any Black Friday sales. There wasn’t anything out there that warranted a 4am wake up call!

After I watched the news, I was proud of that decision. I can’t imagine going shopping, and ending up dead, because people ran over you, and crushed the life out of you!

I’m not sure what the answer is to that problem, but I’ll stay home and avoid it! Mind you, I love shopping for Christmas. I love giving to other people. It is spiritually uplifting! I don’t however, shop at any store that has holiday sales only Christmas sales. The only holiday that gives gifts is Christmas and those are the gifts I buy. I know there are other holidays at this time of the year but they are not celebrated in this particular fashion. God gifted us with Jesus, and we in turn gift every one around with love gifts. Works for me!

George Hill is up and around a little. He is not up to running any marathons, but he is trying to get work done. I’m sure Donna needs a vacation from the worry of what has gone on in the last few months. I guess the fact that George is getting better will help. A span weekend would help more!

Charlotte and Jerry Connally were one of the folks visiting town this week. They spent time with good friends Donald and Ginger. I probably spelt their name wrong, sorry.

Statistics say this is the busiest time of the year for travel. It appears everyone tries to get somewhere for this Thanksgiving holiday. I’m glad gas prices were down! Judging by the number of cars I saw this morning, Richland Springs had its fair share of travelers. Again, I hope everyone had a wonderful, loving time with their family and friends.

Don’t forget the Preservation Society Dinner Theater. The kids have been very busy practicing and getting ready for their big night. I can’t wait to see the finished product. Don’t be late; you want to get a good seat. I know the meal will be delicious. I believe there are flyers and notices around town if you need more information. No doubt Thomas Alston can bring you up to speed.

I met Gary and Elisa Draper’s Aussie grandchildren. They are precious little tow heads, full of energy and spirit. We have spent many weeks in prayer for these little ones. I’m sure the old homestead will be missing these sweeties. They are due to head back to Australia on Thursday.

Brother Barry has asked that they be brought back when they get old enough for football. We could use that lightening speed and tough little Aussie attitude to win future titles! Just in case anyone gets the wrong idea, we have a good crop of local boys spoiling for a chance at a title next year. The little Aussie’s are for 10 years down the road!

One thing that is different, other than the date, about Texas Thanksgiving, is the football. I think I have been footballed out this weekend! I didn’t realize so many games could be played in one day! Oh well. When in Texas. Hurray for football!

The Snoddy’s have their decorations up. Passing their house just gives my heart a lift! I miss seeing Sandra every day. I’m praying for that old horse in the yard. I have spun many stories about that poor old thing.

One day, long ago, he was someone’s magnificent steed and best friend. Now, he just stands guard in the pasture. I’m going to have to get busy getting my Christmas lights out, or it’ll be time to take them down! I like the herd of deer on 45. They were shining brightly when I passed last night. I just love Christmas lights!

I pray everyone has a blessed week. Please pray for our precious troops, their families, our Presidents, coming and going, and for our community. We have a wonderful country. Part of the richness and greatness is due to the Christian principles on which it was founded. I think we are going to have to have a prayer meeting for some rain! Bless you all; have a great week.