Opinion Archive

The month of November has brought on decidedly cooler temperatures.

Admittedly these recent thermometer readings are not at the subfreezing point of latitudes further north, but there is enough of a drop to cause a change in wardrobe.

The other day while grocery shopping, an older couple hustled by me headed for the dairy section.

In addition to their spryness, what made them stand out was that they were dressed identically, tan shorts, navy top, white crew socks and identical athletic shoes. I thought to myself, “I wouldn’t be caught dead!”

Anticipation is my drug of choice, and no time of year is more pleasing than the weeks leading up to Christmas.

I’m not much of a shopper anymore, having entered a phase of my life when getting rid of things feels even better than getting new possessions. But at Christmas, it’s still just as sweet.

This weekend is the official start to Christmas in Navarre. Saturday morning there is a Jingle Bell Run/Walk that begins at 8 a.m. at the Navarre Fire Station – with a shortcut to Grandma’s house.

Where the goodies are. If you haven’t registered at this point – you might be out of luck for this year’s shirt, but a previous year’s shirt will be just as festive.

As I pondered a letter written by a local gentleman who states that Incorporation of Navarre is a bad idea, something struck me.

The writer stated, and I quote, “Or could we enjoy our freedom, mind our own business and appreciate a county government that generally leaves us alone unless we ask for help.”

Thanksgiving Day brings back a wide range of memories, and some of my favorites are those moments on a sandlot football field right down the street from the house I grew up in.

There would be a point late in the day when the sun would begin to set on a cold Illinois afternoon, and we’d decide it was time to go play some football.

It’s a privilege this year to write a column that may be read on Thanksgiving Day. For me, columns about being grateful are some of the easiest to write.

I’m very conscious of gratitude in my everyday life, since I have found it can push me above ground on days when I’m tempted to wallow in a hole. No matter how frustrating and painful life can be, it’s also such a gift. I know that sounds cringe-worthy.