Homefolks U.S.A.

Hi folks,

So many of the stores in larger cities – and some even in smaller towns – are already
gearing up for the Christmas season.

We really need to be thinking about the Thanksgiving season.
This is a holiday I really enjoy, and I know others enjoy it as well. This is a day when
we should pause and really count our blessings. We really should do this every day.
If times are passing too quickly, maybe it’s because we are living in the fast lane.
Let’s all enjoy the next real holiday, Thanksgiving Day, and then get ready for
Christmas.

Many years ago, while traveling the Delta in Mississippi, it was amazing to me how
some of those poor people were enjoying the Christmas season. The houses in the
Delta are small, and a lot of people would refer to them as shacks, but I know that
happiness was in every household.

One house in particular caught my eye. On the front porch was a wringer washer –
most were Speed Queen and Maytag. Wood-bottomed chairs were present, and a
porch swing was in place at the end of the porch, but what made me really take
notice was a Christmas tree in the window. Some Christmas lights were lit in the
window, and the children were running and playing on the porch and in the yard.
You could see happiness on the face of everyone who lived in this small house. I
really think these were some of the most beautiful sights I have ever witnessed.
Maybe we should all slow down, count our blessings and enjoy the season – and
really make it a family event. These scenes are still in my mind today, and I know
that most of those children are grown adults now, but I feel sure they have passed
that tradition on to their children.

The yards were never well maintained, but that’s OK, as long as everyone was
happy.

I always wonder what was under those Christmas trees, as far as a gifts were
concerned. I can almost see those children’s smiles while opening their presents on
Christmas morning. It would be wonderful to make a trip this year just to see if that
tradition was still taking place.

My prayer is that we all slow down, count our many blessings and enjoy every day
as we really should.

I hope our story this week finds everyone feeling good and enjoying life. Our time
here is short, so let’s make the most of every day.

Thanks for reading each week. I hope and trust that so far 2018 has been a good
year for all.

Til next time,
Your friend,
Bobby