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Even though I published on the blog last week, I, once again did not make it to the paper. Apparently I am technologically challenged. So I am publishing the column now that made the paper and you might see some of the same information as last week, but read on. There is new stuff.

I did write a column both of these last two weeks and I did go to a place from which I could send it (I thought) and I waited there for a while just to see if the email was returned. Apparently not long enough, however, as I found the return notice in my mail box when I retrieved my email the next time. Too late to get in the paper. My apologies once again.

The first missed week of course was still about the seniors! I wasn't able to go to graduation as I was in some Godforsaken place without internet access! I am disappointed about that too. I have, however gotten reports from various unidentified sources and it was apparently wonderful, as I would expect. I hear the seniors surprised a few teachers with an unexpected song. Something about "Not Going to Take it Anymore!" Too funny. I am sure the teachers were having similar thoughts.

Congratulations to each and every one of you! Walk through this door into the rest of your life and go with confidence. Believe in yourselves and don't be afraid to take a chance every now and then. Follow your heart sometimes and always trust your instincts. You are perfect and have a long way to go. There will be a lot of stops along the way. Find something to enjoy or learn at each and every one.

Jim and Carol Stone were in town for that big event. They came to witness the graduation of grandson, Tyler Small. Way to go, Tyler! Tyler's parents (Mary and Lyndell Small), they're now looking at that empty nest. Mmmmmm.

Ms. Pauline Crockett was thrilled when Dr. Owen Clopton surprised her with a visit a couple of weeks ago. You all know who he is. Many of you have been his patient and many of you will remember his father. I do. Ms. Pauline and Dr. Clopton talked and shared reminiscences for quite a while, talking about things past and people they both know and knew. One of those folks you might be interested in is Dr. Clopton's sister Patty Sue. Pauline had lost track of her and was glad to hear that she is now living in Burbank, CA.

Jessica Earls is off to visit with her mom in Pennsylvania for a couple of weeks. So if anyone wants to invite Richard to dinner, I'll bet he will accept. I don't want him to go hungry.

The Woman's Club of Rector had the last meeting of the club season on. The highlight of this meeting was the installation of officers. Glenna Bookout was installed as club President and Barbara Vangilder as vice president. Freda Mark will serve as secretary and Lane Wozniak will serve as treasurer. Congratulations to you all.

I missed that too and the reason is that I was once again in central Texas to complete the settlement of the estate of my late mother-in-law. I met my brother-in-law Larry Cooke and his wife Suzy and together we worked ourselves into exhaustion. I am still resting. I have a trunk full of collectable Barbie dolls to sell so if you are a collector, give me a call. We did have some fun too, of course and I hope to have them stop through Rector before they head home. Today they are on their way to Kansas City to welcome a new grandson.

Lane Wozniak has been traveling too. She was on a job in Houston for a few days before returning with a smile on her face. Oh yes, she did manage to phone me when she had dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. If you are ever close to a Papadeaux restaurant, you should stop and eat. It is Cajun seafood and salads and stuff and is wonderful! Now she is off to Maryland. I am sure she will tease me with Maryland crab cakes from there.

Candy Hill spent the Memorial Day weekend with Jessie Malin and was able to visit with several of her friends here. And guess what! She is moving back! Yes! She is moving right back here to Rector! As it should be! Candy has bought the house next door to Paula and me and will be moving in before the end of July. Welcome home Candy. We do so love to get our people back.

I was saddened to learn that Ralph Hardin died while I was gone. My sympathies to the family. He will be missed by many. He has been an integral part of Rector for many years.

Eunice Morris also crossed over and she too will leave a hole in our hearts. We must remember to rejoice because they are home now and although we are without them they are complete at last. God Bless!

Now school is out for everyone!!! Yea! Students and teachers alike are on the loose. So I am looking to hear from you all about what you are doing over the summer vacation. Where did you go? What did you do? Who is coming to visit? I hope each of you has a wonderful, fun, safe summer vacation.

Also on the plus side, I have heard that the farmers have been able to get some crops in the ground at last. Thank goodness. Keep up the good work folks. We all benefit from your efforts. Thanks for all you do.

Did you, by any chance, attend the Spring Voice and Piano Recital of Judy Hargrave's students? The reports I got were positively glowing. The music was wonderful, the voices and piano just beautiful, and it was a terrific performance. (In many languages, I might add). The performers were: Amanda Layer, Blake McCarroll, Cole Thomas, Hadleigh Watson, Kelly Fowler, Anna Blackshare, Sydney Simmons and Witney Conley. Good job, people! And thank you, Judy Hargrave! You do a marvelous job with our youth. We can't begin to sing your praises enough.

Another musical performance over the weekend was the Blue Grass Festival in Memorial Park. That was really a lot of fun! The Lassiter Family, Second Harvest and Run Buzzard Run were the three bands that entertained us. It was hot and I know I have mentioned (ad nauseum) what a weeny I am when it comes to summer weather, but there was a cool breeze and I really got lost in the entertainment. It was nice under the trees and I enjoyed visiting with all the other attendees.

Among the honored guests were the illustrious Mayor and first lady of Rector, Ron and Nancy Kemp. Like me, they were clapping and tapping to the beat. I am glad to report that Mayor Kemp is indeed capable of chewing gum while nodding to the beat of a good song. We did have fun. Thanks to Richard Earls, Joey Pruett and everyone who helped to put on the festival. I look forward to doing it again next year.

The First United Methodist Church had a pot luck supper

Sunday night to say good- by to Roger and Linda Armstrong. They will be moving on to another church in a couple of weeks. I hate to see them go. Thanks so much for being part of our church family for a while.

Well, time to go. I really hope this makes it to the paper. Y'all stay in touch now. I am still wanting information on all you grads, high school and college.

Give me a call or email me. My phone number is 595-3173 or you can drop me a note at 514 West 3rd St. My email address is porchswing@newwavecomm.net.