Hi folks,

The dogwood trees are in full bloom, other trees are beginning to “wake up” and spring is in the air – but most folks are never happy with the seasons of the year.

Nine people last week made the remark to me that the pollen was so bad, and most people were suffering from it.

Let’s everyone enjoy the different seasons and just be happy we are still here to enjoy God’s handiwork. I just hope my central unit will still produce some cold air for this coming summer season.

This past week I have been doing a lot of spring cleaning and have convinced myself that some of “the stuff” has got to go. In rearranging my books, I ran across a copy of “The Blue Vase,” a book written by a Franklin County man that we all know, Mr. Buford Thornton. I read the book again and really enjoy every chapter.

Buford was a regular visitor to the Holy Land, and some of the most beautiful stories were written by him. He had friends all over the world. Many of the stories will make us really appreciate the works of the fine author.

The first time that I ever rode on an airplane was to Las Vegas, Nev., and boarding the plane that morning in Muscle Shoals made me really nervous. I am so thankful that Buford Thornton was boarding the plane as well. He was going on a trip to a foreign country, and he made us feel more comfortable by assuring my wife and me that flying was the safest way to travel.

We went from Muscle Shoals to Memphis and then to Dallas, Texas. The plane was delayed in Dallas several hours, and we had a very delightful conversation with Mr. Thornton. His stories were very wonderful to hear, and I really appreciate the knowledge that he shared with us about his travels and the work God had entrusted him with.

He gave us a copy of his book and autographed it with a prayer for our health and happiness in the years to come.

Dr. Thornton was a lecturer. He wrote magazine and newspaper articles and was a Bible and Sunday School teacher. He was also a world traveler who visited 62 countries.

He was a decorated war veteran and a member of the American Legion, the Veteran of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans.

I am proud to call him my friend.

Till next time,

Your friend,

Bobby