Merry Christmas

I hope this Christmas finds you blessed with health, family and much happiness.

Merry Christmas!
Sonia

What do you look forward to in 2009?

As we near the end of another year, I'm wondering what your thoughts are about 2008. What will you remember most? And, maybe more importantly, what do you look forward to in 2009?

An industry for the new Megasite would be a huge boost to our local economy. And I can't help but wonder what changes will take place when the new director of schools takes over in January.

We all have hopes for our community in the coming year. What are yours?

Hometown Christmas

After finally thawing out from Saturday’s activities on the square, I’ve had a chance to look back and think about it. Yes, the weather was bitter at times but that didn’t keep children from visiting with Santa and sharing their Christmas wishes. Nor did it keep them from jumping in the bouncy house, eating cotton candy and playing with the miniature horses. We lit the community Christmas tree and waited patiently for the parade to travel down Main Street. And it was a great parade — floats, antique cars, the bands and Santa. All in all, it was a fantastic day. What an appropriate theme for a day so filled with good things. And, what a perfect finale for a year that has been fun and exciting in so many ways.

Event-full life

It seems I've been measuring my time in "events.” Not the usual hours, days or months, but the activities themselves have been my calendar. There was no October, November or December this year – only Hatchie Fall Fest, Holiday in Haywood and Hometown Christmas. I've found myself saying that once this is over or that is over, I will have time. But in reality, that's not true. There will always be other "events" that will focus my attention. And to be perfectly honest, I enjoy it. And not just public events, but the private “events” that fill all of our lives. Moving forward, making a difference, taking a stand - whatever it is that drives us to the “events” in our lives … I love it! Who needs to measure time with hours, days or even years, when our lives are filled with so many wonderful “events”?

Huge Crowds at Holiday in Haywood

Over 1,000 people walked through the doors of the Wyatt Duke National Guard Armory this weekend for Holiday in Haywood. Christmas music was playing, prices were right, Santa was a big hit with the kids and everyone seemed to enjoy their time there.

The merchants are already talking about next year's event, so there is not doubt that this was just the first of what is sure to become an annual event.

Did you attend? What did you think?

Holiday in Haywood

This weekend is it. The biggest shopping event of the season. If you can't find something for everyone on your list at "Holiday in Haywood," then they don't need it. Sounds like a commercial, doesn't it? Maybe that's a little extreme but I'm looking forward to a huge selection of one-of-a-kind gifts that literally can't be found anywhere else.

I have my concerns about the economy just like you do, and what better reason can you think of than to at least try to shop locally. Wouldn't it be spectacular if all the merchants were to sell out?

I simply hope that everyone will come out to the National Guard Armory and see what's happening this weekend. It's all inside, so if the weather is "frightful" - the shopping inside will be "delightful." Let's just hope it "doesn't snow," "doesn't snow," "doesn't snow."

Friday 5-9 p.m.; Satuday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sunday 1-4 p.m.

See ya there!

"Trick or Treat with Me" Success

I am sorry that I was not able to be in town last Friday night to see all the children who took advantage of the “Trick or Treat with Me” event planned by local merchants. I hear there was an excellent turn out and many business people were scrambling to find more candy.

I can foresee a new tradition in Brownsville. And why not, it gives merchants the perfect opportunity to give back to the community and provides a safe atmosphere for children to enjoy the Halloween holiday. I’ve also heard many parents who were very appreciative.

Two suggestions I have been told over and over are: start earlier and get more businesses to participate. What are your thoughts?

Does anyone have a good guesstimate as to just how many children did participate?