This past Friday and Monday were holidays and a lot of people were not working.  One of the holidays I did a little research on was Juneteenth (West Virginia Day was the one on Monday).  I have heard this word often but want to share with just exactly what we observed.

 

Juneteenth is the anniversary of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. The announcement was made by General Gordon Granger proclaiming freedom for all enslaved people.  Throughout time different areas commemorated this holiday, but in 2021 President Joe Biden signed the bill proclaiming Juneteenth as a National Independence Day and making it the newest National Holiday. 

 

It appears the hot days of summer are here.  With record breaking temperatures, for our own safety, we are being advised to stay indoors and drink plenty of fluid.  I have been following this advice and have been staying in the house.  My kids have been enjoying the pool but I still did not want to take any chances on getting over heated.  My apartment stays very comfortable and I have found the best thing for me to do is curl up with a book and stay cool.

 

I went to the library to pick up some books they got ready for me and they sent me Danielle Steel's newest book, Beautiful.  I know that I have  probably read at least 75 of her books.  As Steel writes this novel she presents the story of a woman who moves beyond tragedy to a life more meaningful than she believed could exist. Her introduction of characters in the first half as opposed to the last part are so unique as only Steel can do. Pick up the book for a good read.

 

The second book I read was a new author to me, Mariah Stewart. And the title of the book was Sugarhouse Blues. 

 

It was a story about three sisters who had estranged but were drawn back together by the stipulations in their father's will.  The story goes into detail about how the sister try to restore the true meaning of family.  As new hurts and secrets arise and each sister must strive to overcome these incidents and achieve forgiveness and love.  Find a shady spot, fix a tall glass of ice water and start reading. It is a wonderful way to spend a hot afternoon.

 

My sincere condolences to Mary Ann Malcolm and her family on the loss of Bill.  I know there are no words that can convey what his absence will mean.

 

I know the price of gas will curtail some of our plans for vacations this summer.  Try to plan some new day trips to parks close to home.  Rediscover the rocks and trails at Audra State Park, take a picnic lunch to Grafton or Stonewall Resort.  Mini day vacations may have to suffice this year.

 

I hope you will make your reservations for the Women Of Distinction luncheon to be held on June 30 at noon at the Uptown Event Center.  A wonderful group of 10 women will be honored and Marla Farree will be the keynote speaker.  Call 304-624-6881 for reservations.

 

Take care, stay healthy and  til next week “Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine “