After a good many years away, I’ve decided to pick up my pen again and continue the column so faithfully written for so long by Irene Cummings, Elm Grove Echoes. Life has a way of carrying us through busy seasons, hard seasons, and unexpected detours, but there is something about these hills, ranch roads, neighbors, and stories that always calls us home and keeps us grounded. Northwest San Saba County is still a place where rain is discussed before politics, calves and gardens are community news, and folks still check on one another. I’m grateful for the chance to visit with you again through this column.
Following the tradition set by Mrs. Cummings, I would truly love for this column to become a place where our community stays connected. In small towns and rural communities like ours, the stories of everyday life matter— family gatherings, new babies, anniversaries, illnesses, prayer requests, ranch happenings, school events (COYOTES FIGHT, NEVER DIE), community gatherings, and the simple moments that keep neighbors connected. I would love to hear from you with news and events you would like to share. Please feel free to call, text, or email me with family updates, local events, or community information. My hope is that this column will be something we build together—a place where friends and neighbors can keep up with the people and happenings of northwest San Saba County.
Here’s an idea: one small way we can begin getting back to our country roots that generations before us practiced is —a simple wave on the highway. I can just picture the likes of Junior and Bonnie Evans, Curtis Lee, Carrol and Nelda Teague, the Chadwicks, Lydia and Earl Patrick and many others, traveling these roads offering up a simple wave to those they met as they made their way across these country roads. How long has it been since you were traveling the rural roads of Bowser, Elm Grove, Skeeterville, Holt, or the many other communities of northwestern San Saba County and someone lifted a hand to wave as you passed? Highway 765 has become a busy route for folks traveling between San Angelo and Waco, but let’s not lose what makes this place ours. Let’s bring back the simple habit of waving when we meet a neighbor or pass someone along our rural roads. Sometimes the smallest gestures are what keep a community feeling like home. You can sure bet, I will be waving!
I recently stopped by the newspaper office and spent some time reading through and making copies of several of Mrs. Irene Cummings’ old columns. What a treasure those articles are. They capture the people, places, and everyday moments that helped shape our little corner of the world. In future columns, I hope to revisit and highlight some of the stories, memories, and community happenings she shared through the years. It feels like a meaningful way to honor her legacy while also preserving the history and spirit of northwest San Saba County for future generations.
Thanks for reading, and I would love your feedback and news!
Rhonda Wyatt 830-305-9908 rhondajwyatt@gmail.com