Ring the bells; another year has begun. Americans are hoping this year will be better than 2020. I sincerely hope so. This COVID pandemic, courtesy of China, has been mind-changing and mind-blowing for so many people. Citizens are confused by conflicting reports including those from Dr. Fauci, but that’s understandable for something this new and deadly. I, for one, am having trouble determining where the rights of healthy people conflict with those of at-risk people. In a free society such as ours, it is important to remember that rights come with responsibilities. Everyone must examine their priorities, rights, and responsibilities. I chose to wear a mask where required, but I refuse to imprison myself behind one. On the flip side, if I were at-risk, I would stay home to protect myself and others. I pray that life will become more normal, not the new normal, but more normal with these vaccines that are now available.
Last week, I was basking on the beaches of Costa Rica and enjoying fresh fish, banana milk and jungle monkeys. This week, I bundled up and put on my new Canadian toboggan and played in the snow. Talk about a flip in environments. I must say the break from my routine has been wonderful for my general attitude. I’m extremely glad I went. I was asked to bring back some rain which I did and added a little snow as a kicker. Russ took the opportunity of a nice wet snow to make me a special delivery gift of a giant snowball down the back of my sweater. You are never too old for snowballs.
Tuesday at 6 p.m., an entire Coyote Nation will either be in San Angelo attending the state game or be on Fox Southwest Sports watching the game streaming live. I wish I had the results today, but it’s not to be. My hopes and prayers and best wishes go with our coaches and these fine young men who have worked diligently all season to reach this landmark event. Win or lose, these young athletes are winners in my book. Drive safely everyone.
Many people have enjoyed the pictures of my vacation in the paper. When my kids aren’t there, they lease it out through VRBO. It is called the Jungle House. My quilting friends know that my quilts tend to turn out bright and colorful, so this house suits me to a tee. It is a delight to the eyes. There is color everywhere. The flowers are bright and flashy; the birds are bright and raucous, tearing the air apart with their loud voices. Costa Rica is alive, vibrant, and welcoming.
Hopefully, our school year will settle down, and we can complete the year without any virtual interruptions. If they do decide to make the kids take the STAAR tests, I can understand because we need to know where we stand as a state and as a country. I am not looking forward to taking the tests, but I have no say in that decision. Please parents, keep your students in school every day. I haven’t spoken to many parents, but it would be interesting to know how many parents enjoy our four day or week.
Monday Church will resume on the 11th. The First Baptist men’s breakfast under the Tabernacle will be rescheduled in the next few weeks. Ladies Quilting and Bible Study will resume on the 12th.
It was good to see Helon Mayor at church this Sunday. She has recovered well from her surgery. We are still in prayer for several people in the community who are fighting cancer. I hear Tiny Shannon is responding well to his treatments. Please pray for our sick, our shut-ins and our country. Pray for resolution and peace for 2021. Look up for our redemption draws near. Please, Lord, help us get this pandemic under control. Don’t forget to pray for President Trump and the Congress. Our medical personnel need many prayers, our police officers and most of all our precious troops and their families. Welcome to 2021 everyone.