RITCHIE COUNTY'S BEASON NEWS

(02/05/2008)

Kathleen H. Taylor
fieldaflowas@yahoo.com

How about that Super Bowl? I was rooting for the Patriots. Even though I live in West Virginia I think I will always be a Patriot at heart. Once a Patriot, always a Patriot.

We attended the Boy Scout Pinewood Derby at the Mall on Saturday. Ethan didn't fair so well this year, but had a good time. It makes for a very long day if one places first or second in the pack. I just wasn't in the kind of mood to spend a day at the Mall with every kid 17 and under on the planet in attendance. I hate explaining why some kids' hair is blue or they have rings through their lips. I don't foresee Ethan ever pulling that dress code, but, Avery is a totally different child. Avery has developed the "I am all about me" attitude. I am thankful he still remembers who's boss at our house. That would be me in case anyone out there is thinking differently.

Ethan prepares entry for take-off

"Aunt Pete" visited the shop this past week. She is the coolest chick ever. She upholds the title "President of the Big Hair Club" very well. I have never seen her have a bad day. Her attitude toward herself and life in general is amazing. She is a constant reminder of how we all should be. Don't take life lying down. Embrace it and take it to the top of the mountain.

We have discussed renting a booth at Calhoun's Wood Festival this year. I have a list of items I would like to do. Currently, I am working on some things that I hope will go over well with some of the Wood Festival crowd. If you would like to participate, please let me know. I think Ritchie County folks have a lot of talent that should be displayed every chance they get. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate this year. I am looking forward to the Mud Bog they have each year. What can I say? I can be a Patriot and a Redneck can't I? I think it's important for every girl to have as many facets as possible. What fun is it if you don't play outside the box occasionally?

I think we have two more major wrestling tourneys to attend. They are in Calhoun County and Nicholas County. I think the State Championship follows those tournaments. Rest assured I don't think we will be participating in that deal. I can tolerate so many tournaments, but I can't tolerate a gym full of attitudes. I have to deal with two little ones every day. That is plenty for me. I find that a lot of kids have attitudes that are out of control. I think it's great if one has drive and determination, but, there is a line that should not be crossed. Crossing the line takes the fun and excitement out of the sport as well as the meaning of good sportsmanship.

I keep up on Ann Richards and Alice Hickman's columns on the Hur Herald. They always have something kind and thoughtful to write back. Hats off to them! However, Rhonda Keith's column, "Parvum Opus", makes the top of the list. She has made me think about subjects from different perspectives. I love this column because there is always material "outside the box."

"Cawthon's Catharsis" also makes for an interesting read. Apparently, Jack had known my father from many years ago. I think that's what drew me to the column at first. There were many things he enlightened me on and for that, I will forever be grateful. Of course, the best article (which should be obvious. Ha.Ha.Ha.) is also available on the Hur. I am thankful for this opportunity to take part on this publication. If you have time, go check these columns out on www.hurherald.com.

I found a quote that I would like to share with you. It is, "Happiness is a butterfly which when pursued is just beyond your grasp...but if you will sit down quietly, it may alight upon you."-Nathaniel Hawthorne.