Opinion

People that know me well, know that “Barney Fife” of the early 60’s “Andy Griffith TV Show” was one of my alltime favorite characters. So much so, that somehow along the way I developed a fairly good impersonation of ol’ Barn with his quirky mannerisms and highpitched voice whenever he was in his element as Sheriff Andy’s deputy. I can take on Barn’s persona and not feel embarrassed at all. That was the thing about Emmy award-winning actor Don Knotts --- he didn’t mind playing the fool... looking especially awkward, naive or gullible for a laugh. That’s me too.

On the quest to raising good humans, I realize that most people tend to use the holidays as a teachable time for kids. We encourage the need to do good for others who might have less than we do as we donate food, toys, money and help in our communities and beyond. We do this on overdrive in November and December because these months are within the “season of giving.” And while I wish this was more of a year-round notion; I still jump on board with my own three kids to embrace the season as a time to do for others with no expectation of gain. Many of the best ways to help others costs nothing at all, aside from some time and effort. Children of all ages can benefit from giving without expecting anything in return. One of the first very first lessons learned is to share. This is an essential social skill for building healthy relationships with others and contributes to overall happiness. The holiday season always seems to bring out the best in people and I always look for new ways in which my children can share in the joy of helping others.

While I enjoy watching the Food Channel, I’m not a foodie. I come from a family that eats the basic provisions. We’re not big on spices, or fancy dishes. My mom is a good cook. She will tell you that she isn’t, she is modest that way. She has cooked for our family for decades and if you’ve seen any one of us, you know we aren’t starving. Her potato soup with its simple ingredients, has the power to heal bruised hearts, tired souls and the common cold. I think it’s the love she puts into her cooking. Love enhances food more than exotic ingredients ever could.

I’ve always been a Christmas junkie. My family was traditional with turkey dinner during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

fall classic the crack of the bat etches history __________ liftoff the astros soar to the title .

It had been a long and tedious day. The country was raw and rough, and it had taken its toll. The handlers brought the gates around and securely closed them. At last, they were all penned and safe. The gathering had taken most of the day, but it had worked well despite the hours spent. Hopefully, the head count would be correct, and they could be about their business of moving the sheep to the new grazing area. It would be good to get back to camp. As the herd milled and stewed some men sat on the ground while a couple of others followed the herdsman.

This time of year is stressful for me. As the mom of adult children, so many responsibilities fall on my shoulders to make the holidays perfect. When they were little, they wouldn’t notice if something slipped. Now it’s like, “Why didn’t you make the potato casserole?” and “Wow. I can’t believe there are no outside lights.” Throw in the fact that finals happen right in the middle of all this, along with a zillion essays to grade, and it’s more of a recipe for burnout than peace on earth.

He sat, almost without fail, on a bench outside a little drug store in Dublin, Texas. He was an older man, and I would drive by, and he would wave, and I would wave back. I repeatedly thought I should stop and introduce myself or at least say hello but for some reason, and I have no excuse, I never did.

He sat on the back porch with his front legs crossed and watched diligently. Everything before him concerned him and despite his age, nothing went unnoticed or unchecked. He listened intently to some far-off noise and probably wondered if he should check it out. He watched the halfgrown pup make a run at the chickens and rose to head him off but laid back down when the pup gave it up.

It’s officially fall in Texas. I’m wearing a sweater for the third time this week. I’ve even pulled out the jar of pumpkin pie spice and added a shake or two to my morning coffee. For me, this season equals peace. In contrast to the hustle and bustle of spring or the jam-packed activity of summer, autumn means slowing down, fixing a warm drink, and slow-breathing the crisp, fall air.