Snow and Cold

We got a little snow today. Luckily the ice underneath did not pose as big a problem as it could have. Wonder if anyone found enough accumulation to make a snowman?

I know we’ve had colder winters, but this year has had me chilled to the bone. Just can’t seem to get warm. Sometimes I think the older I get the colder I get. But it seems I’ve always been cold natured. I remember Daddy coming home many times to find me piled on the couch under a bunch of blankets. He would always ask if I’d “heard about that woman freezing to death?” When I’d say no, he’d explain I must have or I wouldn’t be wrapped up so.

So until winter gives way to spring, I'll just sit here, patiently, on the couch under my pile of blankets. Maybe if we all think warm thoughts ...

Valentine Plans

Just yesterday I made the comment that Valentine's seems to be losing it's allure because I have not heard too much about it yet. But today I am hearing of several events planned for that evening and some great deals at local stores for some unique gift items. Darlene at Merle Norman tells me she has some great gift baskets ready for just the right person and something about a "fondue for two." That has my interest, I can't wait to see what that is. Rayz Tanning is offering a couples deal on tanning and has gift items that they are offering to deliver for you. Morris Jewelers is offering free balloons and homemade fudge with some purchases. There's a dinner and blues event planned at the Country Club and Haywood County Relay for Life team is sponsoring an event at the National Guard Armory. I know there are other great deals and events planned for Brownsville. I'd love to hear about what you have planned for Valentine's.

Calling all Green Thumbs

I can't wait to get my hands dirty this year. I have big plans for rearranging my gardens. When we moved I went from a great shade garden full of my favorite plants - Hostas, to a yard that is full sun. I have a lot of adjusting to do and more shade structures to build to accommodate my Hosta collection. This will be a real test of my Master Gardener knowledge.

If these cold rainy days have you wanting for the feel of good clean dirt on your hands, you're the perfect candidate for the new Master Gardener class. UT Extension conducts these classes yearly and classes will begin January 22. Call the Extension office, 731-772-2861, for costs and to sign up. It's great fun and you meet wonderful gardening friends.

State of the School

I was sad to hear that Doris Battle has resigned. In her 25 years in the school system she has served many posts, from teacher to assistant principal, to principal, to assistant director and most recently as interim director. Doris has also been actively involved in the community. She will be missed as she leaves to accept a position with Shelby County Schools. Good luck, Doris.

If you would like to meet the new director, Marlon King, please plan to attend a State of the School Address on Monday, January 5, 8 a.m., in the Haywood High School gym. There will also be a reception for Mr. King from 3-6 p.m., Monday afternoon at the College Hill Center. Everyone is invited.

Goal Setting for 2009

I have to admit that my updating of the AAB website is going slowly. After spending a few days at Christmas doing absolutely nothing, I am having a hard time getting back into the swing of things. But I am working on it and hopefully by this weekend will be able to upload the new calendar.

Of course with today being New Year's Eve all the talk is about resolutions. I have one resolution I make every year and so far have been able to keep it year after year. I'm sure you've figured out what it is by now - "I resolve to make no resolution." Hey, at least I don't have to worry about breaking it, or worse, feel guilty about not keeping it.

Seriously, I have a great lack of willpower and therefore know it fruitless to resolve anything. Instead I find it easier to set goals. So, my goal for 2009 is to get more organized and find time to do the things I really love - like gardening and painting. (One of the last things I painted is on the wall of my home office. I looked at it last night; it's dated 1995.) Yep, 2009 is going to be a great year!

Happy New Year! And may you accomplish all your goals in '09.

Business & Service Directory

If you are familiar with the All About Brownsville website, you already know about the Business & Service Directory listed on the site. I try to add sites as I learn about them and hope that you will use the directory when looking for something in Brownsville and Haywood County.

My goal is to have a complete listing of all businesses, services and local individuals and organizations in our community. I've just learned of some and am sure there are many more who are not listed. Please help me update these listings. Take a look, www.allaboutbrownsville.net/bsd, and let me know about the sites you are aware of. I'll create categories as needed to accomodate the additions. Even blog sites are welcome. Just remember they must be Brownsville or Haywood County-related sites

Merry Christmas

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

Merry Christmas!
Sonia