I hope everyone had a nice Christmas, safe travels and gatherings. I know some canceled gathering and some folks just stay at home all the time. Isolation can be “harmful” too. Being alone never did bother me. Of course, there is always work to do but, I’m more likely to write letters, read or even nap...

A sad happening for me is the closing of Van Dykes store. I asked around trying to learn when they opened. Most knew Link was there first then Ed Carnahan then Glen and Gladys Van Dyke. Learned it was in 1946 it became Van Dyke’s. Lumber was added when David Kearbey bought it. The lumber shed was torn down recently...

Did you see the beautiful sunrise Sunday morning? It filled the southeastern sky. Shortly after noon it was misting rain that changed to snow. It made travelers glad to be home and changed some plans. The weather changed plans for folks on Saturday too, understand it was still a fun day together...

I watched the Christmas lights get hung and lit at the four way stop in Ellsinore at V and A Junction. Later in the week watched the lighted Christmas parade from my window. Much warmer than front porch swing. Of course, I couldn’t hear “shout outs”, missed that. Some people wore lights and walked. The pipe canes were hung before the Christmas swag at the junction. Other towns have lights up too. It’s that time of year...

Several families gathered together for Thanksgiving and some continued to isolate. It is a personal thing I think. It is a strange thing that a door can say “masks required” and no mask is provided. I saw unmasked people in the business. I usually have a mask in my pocket if needed I put it on and I’ve been given masks which are appreciated. I do hope people will not completely isolate themselves in fear. That is unhealthy too...

Thursday morning was headed out when Vernon Leach passed by, stopped, asked if he could help? I said you can bring my car to the gate. He did. I said I’m headed to the quilters, he said tell all my relatives hi for me and I did. At the post office Bruce Asher got my mail for me which is always appreciated. Larry Nay has also gotten my mail for me as well as others...

The flags were flying again and you know I like seeing the flags. I’m proud to be an American and appreciate all who serve and have served. I pray we will always be free. I see some personal tattered flags when I am traveling about. This saddens me...

I saw pictures of the Chilton/Thompson wedding which took place Oct. 17 at Knowlyn family farm in Jackson, Mo. It was a family affair even the children had a part. Debi baked their cake. Debi enjoys baking cakes of all kinds. Sad that she can’t pick up extra money baking/decorating cakes. Everyone can use extra money along...

The surprise for the quilters backfired when those to deliver didn’t understand my typewritten note. So, the surprise was on the quilters on Oct. 15 when I made the delivery and stayed for lunch and ice cream. It was an enjoyable time. Dwight Boyer also visited but didn’t eat...

The quilters met on Thursday to quilt. They had a potluck lunch and honored Viola Crites on her 97th birthday Oct. 6. It was pretty much a birthday week for Viola. The family gathered for family dinner, cake and ice cream too. Then the daughters took Viola on a day trip (home to sleep) to see things they had not seen in awhile. Think it was a fine celebration with a few surprises thrown in...

Ignorant, silly, foolish, and stupid all mean lack of intelligence. I hope whoever borrowed my long handled shovel would have returned it by now. Since they didn’t I was going to Van Dykes to buy another. Both front doors were wide open, I went in, waited a bit, saw no bell. ...

Understand the Salt Shaker is closing. This is a sad happening and so unnecessary. Understand their rent was raised over $1,000 now, who profits? Certainly not the community who will lose another nice place to eat and another nice building stands empty...

Can a county lose it’s Purple Heart status? I noticed the Purple Heart County sign is missing on A at the Wayne County line. There’s nothing on the Carter County side. No A Highway sign, no Carter County sign and no Purple Heart County sign. That is an honor earned and should be recognized. I appreciate those who serve and have served to keep America free...

Hope everyone is doing good. Know there is still sickness and death. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I care. I got home in time to see the flags flying. Went to church and saw flags flying in Piedmont. Took my news and flags were flying in Doniphan and Van Buren...

Sympathy to those who lost family and friends, especially the Condray family in the death of Nola. Think it was a Tupperware party we met at. She was named for her grandpa, Noel Boyer, so I asked if her name was Noela and it isn’t. Ila Bell (grandma) said no but I wish it was. I’m glad to have known her...

Was at the post office recently, visited with Sharon Nay, met Dakota and Cheyanne - great-grandchildren. Larry took my letters, mailed them and got my mail. Saved me several steps. We visited briefly also. Sympathy to those who lost family and friends. ...

Marie Cooper had a house full of family on Sunday. She cooked dinner and all had an enjoyable day. I met Marie when we worked as volunteers at Ellsinore Nutrition Center. Special memories. Have always appreciated knowing Marie. Went to church, grocery shopped, got home, unloaded at the gate and parked the car in garage. While I was walking to the house had my groceries carried in ... all in one trip which was greatly appreciated. Had a brief but nice visit with Nita Cooper, my helper...

I thought the Census was to be in by April. I’m still receiving stuff and hearing on the news about it. Know it’s mass mailing but why still getting and hearing, it’s July? Had several helping hands and feet this week. Some new folks, some strangers but all are appreciated. ...

Great to see the flags flying again. Was out and about and saw in other towns too. I am proud to see the flags, live in America and appreciate all that makes this possible. I will never understand violence and destruction. All lives matter. Hope all had a safe Fourth and enjoyed family and friends. ...

I’m happy to see right of way mowing finally being done. Seems they are about two months slow. Several back roads were mowed first which is odd to me. They may have been busy in other areas but travelers see the ragged right of way and wonder why. Bill Riggins and I met at The Salt Shaker for Sunday dinner and visiting. Seem to always see someone I know and Bill does too...

June 14 was Flag Day and I saw no flags as I passed through the local towns. Rather sad and disappointing happening. I know it takes folks spending time to put the flags up and take them down. It is appreciated to see the flags flying. Several were doing yard work over the beautiful Friday and Saturday. I was glad to get my grass mowed and got one bush trimmed that needed trimming...

Several were delivering food boxes on Friday. My driver was in a red vehicle. I asked if I could put it in the paper, Christmas in June. He didn’t care and I’m always pleased to have something to say. As the day went I saw others receiving food. I know several shared including me. ...

Think everyone enjoyed the sunshine and less humidity. It got quite warm but know several enjoyed the rivers and lakes. One carry-out grocery boy commented how busy they were on Memorial Day weekend. I was around to other towns and saw several flag displays. Several stayed up through Tuesday and some were still up this week. I drove a few miles extra to see one display but, noticed the flags flying this week too...

The U.S. flags are flying. Always a welcomed sight to see for me. Another holiday Monday with banks and post office closed. Friday evening Bill Riggins visited and we ate at The Salt Shaker. Our waitress wasn’t known to Bill but he knows her parents and grandmother. They had a good visit. I hope they do well. Seems like several were in and out. Pretty much obeying social distancing...

Congratulations to the seniors. It’s been a different year for you but, you are the class of 2020 and have hopes, dreams and plans like everyone else who ever graduated. May those plans and hopes come true. Remember as you prepare for your future to always save some of your income to have for the future as well as having for your needs and some pleasure today. Good luck...

I got my hair done Friday. Debi Reynolds told me she must close for two weeks. This is her living. I know she has a house payment and living expenses, how is she going to manage? Political leaders are bragging they are making this gift possible. This is only $200 trillion for living expenses. ...

A little bird told me Dustin Johnson is going to get a baby brother Friends and family gathered at Yount Community Center to have a shower for the coming event. It was a rainy ole Saturday but lots of visiting, laughter and fun inside. There were refreshments and gifts given. Dustin is the great grandson of Hazel Tripp. His parents are Stephanie (Clark) and David Johnson...

It’s been a year since I saw the Purple Heart City signs in Ellsinore City Hall. I understand the Highway Commission refuses to cooperate and the city has decided to put on city streets but I heard that over a month ago and the signs are not up yet. ...

I would like everyone to hear the sermon I heard on Sunday. I have heard it before but learned many years ago (over 20) this truth which is why I drive to Patterson for Bible teaching/learning. Sad that most of the people I know (including family) have/will missed/miss heaven. I have often commented to rightly divide the Bible. Want a copy, just ask...

Debi Reynolds drove to Stockton Friday evening to watch Wyatt Downs play basketball and brought Annah, Tyler and dog Pepper home with her for the week. They also visited the other grandparents and went back home on Friday the 14th. Debi had her usual working week but always enjoys the grandchildren visiting. No Chick-fil-A this trip, they are closed on Sunday...

I’m only recently seeing/hearing of the Prop S but, I am for anything that will help keep the nutrition center in the black. This is a needed service and should continue serving. I’m not a voter, haven’t been since JoAnn Emerson voted to bail out the bankers that made foolish loans. ...

Well, the groundhog saw his shadow here. Look at the calendar, it’s almost seven weeks until spring. Saw ducks flying over low recently. Not sure what that means but seems early. Not the first time to see ducks or geese fly over in January. One year a flock landed on our lake in December. We watched them awhile but had to get around. We got feed and when we pulled into “barn road” the geese raised up into their V and flew off down the valley...

Well, did you watch the Trump trial? I turned on to watch Jeopardy and turned it off again. I wasn’t asked. Our representatives don’t always represent us (the tax payer) all that well sometimes. Don’t they realize WE provide their pay check. Great to look out and see the birds feeding at my feeders. Thanks to the young man that stopped by and filled the feeders. Walking isn’t that easy anymore. I’ve finally accepted “just honk and we’ll come”. This is appreciated too...

A December promise for January fulfillment fell through which leaves me feeling like the airplane that flew too low over the cowshed and left me holding the bag. Not pleasant. Bill Riggins drove to Springfield to visit his sisters, Mary, Beverly, Beth and nephew Billy Joe Kee. Some ate out including Larry Archer. It was a good trip and enjoyable visit...

Not much happening. Felt like not enough to even send in news items. Had a few calls to see if I’m okay and I am. Bill Riggins had an errand in the area. Called me to see if I’d like to eat at Log Cabin. Seemed like “Old Home Week”. Some just dropped in, some have returned to the area to live. ...

The traffic in the slow lane going west at Van Buren totaled 18 for me this year. Still puzzles me it was even built because “everyone” knew the four lane was coming. I have said 100 vehicles a year probably don’t use the slow lane. Understand the Highway Commission is not cooperating to get the Purple Heart City and county signs posted for Ellsinore and East Carter. This is a sad happening for me...

Several ladies from the General Baptist Church missionary group gathered at the home of Marie Carter on Tuesday night for their Christmas party. Taco soup along with seasoned crackers, finger foods, delicious cookies of several different kinds were enjoyed by all...

Monday I made a special trip to Van Buren to accomplish several needed errands. Still made it home for lunch delivery. Lena and I always have a special ??? ... time at delivery. She makes my day but, she seems to enjoy it too. I get tickled when she has something extra (not on menu) but, occasionally she gets something too...

Dwayne Wallace was in Ellsinore recently giving a helping hand to folks with septic tank problems. He had the exact tool to remedy the problem and made short work of the repairs. Seems things were not installed right to begin with. Later he and Freda dropped by with turnips and pears for me. I don’t cook much anymore but like turnips and appreciate getting some. Like pears too but, seldom cook or can them anymore...

Debi Reynolds traveled to Stafford, Mo. to help her granddaughter, Annah Downs, celebrate her 13th birthday on Saturday. She was also going to be baptized. Several family members were making the trip too. I’ll get “detailed” report next week after the fact or maybe the act...

I recently read it took 15 months for medals to reach the National Museum of Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. Sincerely hope it is not that long for East Carter on A and 34 and Ellsinore City Purple Heart signs to be set. The 60 Highway sign is in Butler County. ...

Did you notice the Harvest Moon Friday evening? I heard several comments on it. The Patterson folks are having a gospel meeting with Randall Duvall of St. Robert. Mr. and Mrs. Nolan Glover of Kennett attended Friday evening. It’s always great to see and hear these folks. Some of our own are still not feeling good. Feel better folks...

The quilters met as usual on Thursday to quilt, visit, sometimes sing a song and there is always laughter. Seems impossible for folks to be together and there not be laughter. After quilting awhile they spread the table for potluck lunch/dinner. The blessing was said, they ate, then celebrated Viola’s 96th birthday with cake and ice cream. ...

The Patterson Church of Christ group traveled to Cedargate for preaching and singing Sunday, Sept. 29. I was disappointed nobody welcomed us, nothing was said for residents to come into the dining area to participate, only one resident came out. It was a good message and would have helped anyone who heard it and applied the message to their own life...

Sometimes I just plain forget what day it is and sometimes it seems like another day and I miss an appointment or getting my news in. I don’t mean to be careless, I’d love to be perfect but I’d have to live with myself. Sometimes it seems there’s just nothing to say...

I travelled the lake road at Clearwater recently and the dirt is all smoothed off, gravel on many places but the rugged rock still shows. I just don’t understand where the water came from with such force to do the destruction. The Purple Heart County for both Reynolds and Wayne Counties on 34 and HH Highways are posted. ...

The flags are flying. It is one of my favorite sights. Went the Valley Route recently, enjoy that route and always see wildlife, but was nearly home before wild turkeys flew up and away. Usually always see deer and have even seen eagles. When I traveled that route more often I would see large flocks of turkeys almost daily. Sam let someone hunt one year and they got a turkey. I’ve not seen the large flocks any more...

Seems the receiving of the Purple Heart City signs are just the first step in an apparently lengthy process of getting them in place. I understand someone of the highway commission must indicate where they are to be placed. Seems someone isn’t coming to the front to get the job done. I’m proud that Ellsinore is a Purple Heart City and Carter County is a Purple Heart County. I like seeing the signs as I travel about...

July 20 Allen Duvall of Patterson traveled to St. Robert to help in a two week “hands on” Bible study for young men 9 to 16 interested in deeper study of scripture and learning to lead services and be a preacher. It was a learning experience for all...

Great to see Beth Duckett recently. She is looking good. We visited briefly. She said she is doing good. Was at the bank recently. I like the girls’s shirts. Didn’t ask if they planned to all wear them that day. Kathy Kearbey and Debi Reynolds have both been on vacation and met at the airport in Seattle catching different flights home. ...

Some parents are traveling to Sedalia for baseball games their boys are playing in. It’s a summer thing that involves different schools, players and teams. All part of growing up. Good luck and safe travels. Monday was my day to travel to Dexter. I had dinner with Marie Kester. ...

I saw some of the flags being hung. Always glad to see the U.S. flags flying. Appreciate those who are serving in the military, those who did serve and those who died serving. On my DC trip we went to Arlington Cemetery. Saw the changing of the guard and saw veterans and their guardian who were on another bus. ...

Lots of activity at Bank of Grandin in Ellsinore. They are enlarging their building. Dozers are busy smoothing the land, trucks hauling away the dirt, cement being poured. It’s nice seeing young helpers learning too. Lots to be done yet but the bank personnel are hopeful the addition will be finished in a few months. Lots depend on the weather of course. It’s been sunny but rain moved in Saturday evening...

I wanted to say greetings from the Grand Canyon and fax the news while on my trip west. That didn’t happen so, I’m home now from a trip on USA tours located at Rolla. A different driver but same hostess as Texas trip. We started each day with a prayer which seemed appreciated by all. ...

Hearing some garden talk lately. Was thinking it’s been rainy and cool folks were waiting. I know most plant potatoes on St. Patrick’s day and that’s mid March. But, recent talk is several have gardens out. I know greenhouse activity starts early but, most don’t have greenhouse activity going on. Several are mowing and weed eating and most yards are looking good. I met a young worker recently realized I knew his family for three generations. I appreciate the helping hands whenever I get them...

Monday was a trip to Van Buren to get medicine refilled, a few groceries, leave my Current Local news, get my chicken salad sandwich and home. Tuesday was the ARMSE meeting at Pizza Americana, Willow Springs. The crowd was small, some were sick, some were hunting and no update was given. ...

Violet Bryant’s daughter gave her a surprise birthday party, family and friends came from: Perryville, Mo., Granite City and Fairview Heights, Ill. as well as locally. Here were her daughter and son-in-law, son and daughter-in-law, five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, her uncle Calvin and wife Dora Lee Stratton, aunt Wanda Metcalf, Eileen Raymer and others. ...

The Eighties Ladies met on Friday, April 5 at Sasso’s Log Cabin. It was just Sylvia Richmond, friend Kenneth Rice and me. Kenneth said the blessing, we ate and visited. It was an enjoyable time together. We missed the others and hope all are okay. About 2 p.m. the Jammer’s started arriving, moving furniture around making room to sit, play and sing. They invited Sylvia and Kenneth to join them but I had to get on around. I enjoy but, don’t play music. Sylvia had her Dulcimer with her...

The blossoms are gone from the vacant lot next door. I was really pleased there were blooms after the complete stripping of the property. A bulldozer came in (with operator, of course) and smoothed the ground leaving a tree (I don’t know where it came from because it seemed every tree, fence, building and grass blade was taken in the first clearing). There is dirt, rocks and some cement pieces in a pile close to the downed tree...

Still much sickness and more deaths. Just seems like the “bug” just hangs around. Several have gone to bed for up to two days. They feel better but in a few days are back in bed. Others have pre-existing problems that keep them down or not feeling as they want to and should. ...

Sympathy to the Hancock family in the death of Sudie (Mrs. Arville) who lost her battle with cancer. She was a Doniphan homemaker and enjoyed baking and helping others even when she became ill. Sudie will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Monday was my day to visit in Dexter. ...

Was at the bank Friday and learned Kathy Kearbey was wanting to travel to St. Louis and watch her other grandchildren play their indoor sports. Since it was rainy she thought the Saturday baseball tournament planned for his area would be rescheduled. It was not canceled at that time but, within the hour it was canceled. Hope the St. Louis games were enjoyed and safe travels to all...

It was a crystal world under the street lights early Saturday morning when the sun shone briefly. I saw a big flock of geese going over. Mentioned it at the post office and Ellen said she saw geese on Friday. The weather was nice on Thursday and the quilters quilted. ...