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I would like to thank those who continued the saga of Anna Eliza Blount through the entire six blogs.  After seeing the number drop significantly from the first to the second, then to a lesser degree from the second to the third blog, I reorganized the story and added more recollections from my father and cousin Sam Goolsby.  One benefit to blogging your family history is it helps you learn what others want to know about their families.

I would appreciate hearing from those that dropped out after reading the first blog.  What turned you off?  How could I have better presented the facts to have kept your attention?  The only way a writer can improve is gain feedback from readers.  Your time is valuable to both of us and I would appreciate your sharing your thoughts with me.  God bless you!

Margaret Cline Harmon  

The Changing Seasons of Life

I was reflecting on the future today and the changes that are coming soon in my life.  I will complete my three-year term on the Regional Arts Council of Zachary at the end of the year.  I plan on rewriting and expanding the book “History of Zachary United Methodist Church” for the first six months of 2015.  I recently read and was reminded that God stands with us during our changing seasons of life.
  

When I turned 50 and then 60, I felt little different than every other birthday.  I turned 70 this July, and I do sense change in my body, and I can no longer push myself the way I did for years.  Now I realize my time to make positive change is short.  I have a framed needlepoint that my daughter Tina made me many Christmas ago.  The needlepoint verse is one of my favorite poems.  It reads,
  

 “If I should live to a ripe old age,

may I possess some bit of individuality,

charm, and wit, that I may not be discarded

when I am withered, worn and weak,

but sought after and cherished, like a fine antique.”

     

I try to live a Christian life and to think of others.  Time will only tell if I am discarded or cherished.  I know the choices I make today will define my future.
    

2015 offers a needed transition back to my writing.  It is a welcome change and will allow me to paint again too.  One of the students I teach at Zachary High School, asked me, “Are you old enough to retire Mrs. Harmon?”  I responded, "Yes, on a calendar, I am eligible to retire, but hope I never stop working or learning.  Learning, especially, is the seasoning in my life.  That is why I do substitute teaching."
    

As I work on the history book of Zachary United Methodist Church, I will blog on thoughts generated from my research.  I hope you will follow then, and enjoy them.   I wish my family and friends a great 2015.