Good-by February

Good-by February. It is time for us to start thinking about spring for real, I guess. This has been such a mild winter it's hard for me to realize it is almost over. I love seeing the daffodils blooming everywhere, but I have not yet seen a single crocus. Do any of you have a crocus blooming? I see new leaves poking up all over though. It won't be long until we have spring flowers everywhere.

Pauline Graves Shields celebrated her birthday in style last Thursday with cake and ice cream and lots of friends and family. In addition to her friends at NHC, several people came from Rector. Granddaughter, Ginger Sain organized the party with the help of the NHC staff. Gregg Sain, Neda Sain and Pamela Sain Mills with her son, Ford were also there. Granddaughters, Teresa and Pam were unable to attend, but sent their love. Others who came from Rector were Rev. Mace Strauble, of the Rector FUMC, Glenna Bookout, Kay Huggins, Jessie Malin, Krissy Panowski, Mallory Gilbee, Rheba Scobey, Carolyn Hargrave, Lane Wozniak. Virginia Reid was there from Kennett. It was a great party with lots of cards and flowers.

The First United Methodist Church in Rector had some very special guests on Sunday. In addition to Rev. Strauble's son Paul, the congregation welcomed a group of Native Americans who testified to their life experiences and their acceptance into the Christian faith. Their stories were both moving and inspiring. The Indian taco supper they prepared was quite good too.

The FUMC in Piggott hosted an Arts Celebration presented by the Clay County arts Council on Sunday afternoon. It was a spectacular showcase of local talent. Performers included: Kenneth Renshaw, who organized the event, Sydney Simmons, the Mistress of Ceremonies, Larry Norred, Connor Boyster, Lindsey Ford, Louis Lin, Colton Haywood, Haven Cagle, Julianne Jordan, Sophie Simmons, Logan Wilson, Andrew Rathel, Jamie Wilson, Miranda Allen, Sandra Routszong Jim Copeland and the Piggott First United Methodist Church Choir. Everything from dramatic reading to piano to guitar and voice, the venue ranged from classical to hymns to show tunes. Outstanding.

The reception was catered by Cathy Louder of www.catscandy.com . She makes delicious cookies as well as wonderful candy.

The CCAC is dedicated to supporting the arts in Clay County by conducting combined fundraising events, presenting the Arts in area schools, developing proprietary Arts experiences and acting as a clearing house for the arts. If you are interested in being a part of this group, contact Gail Burns (870) 240-3014. Talent is not a requirement to join. All you need is a love of art.

I was very flattered to have several people recognize me as the writer of this column. Thank you all for your comments to me. Now be a part of the column and send me your goings on.

Guess that's about it for this week. Let me know what is going on with you. You can email me at: porchswing@newwavecomm.net or call me (870) 595-3173. You can even drop me a line at 514 West 3rd St., Rector AR. Bye for now. Stay safe and enjoy life.

Blessings to our military everywhere.