I was raised on the north side of Fort Worth in a section of the city known as Rosen Heights. We lived in a modest, well-kept older home near the end of the bus line on a major street that ran northwest toward Lake Worth. The house included two large bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, a kitchen and one bathroom. But my room was the very best of all because it kept me well separated from my two older sisters. It was the screened-in back porch which had heavy canvas on rollers that could be raised or lowered depending on the weather.

The war in Ukraine breaks my heart and inspires me at the same time. The unthinkable assault is heartbreaking; Ukrainians coming together to fight for their freedom is inspiring. They’ve put all their differences aside. Those differences are insignificant squabbles when faced with a democracy thief dispatched by the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

I can’t believe how things have changed in less than three months. In January, we were still dealing with omicron, wearing masks everywhere and assuming that would be the “new normal” going forward. And it may happen again. Or it may not. I hope future variants will be milder---or new vaccines will work better. I just received my second COVID booster about a week ago, just after the dogs had their annual shots and rattlesnake boosters. It’s a good idea to protect yourself as much as you can. No one knows the future. We’d all became rather complacent after vaccinations---and felt bulletproof last summer. That was the last time I traveled to see my kids, but when you read this, I will have at last flown to see them all again and finally meet my new granddaughter. She’s over five months old now, and I’ve waited long enough. I envy those of you who have family close by.

Early voting began Monday for local elections and two proposed constitutional amendments relating to property tax reductions. Early voting continues through Tuesday, May 3, with election day on Saturday, May 7.

I wrote before of a late spring this year, ushered in by a rash of wildfires, drought and strong, dry wind. I ran out of room before I could add that we’ve observed other harbingers of the season that arrived a little late to the dance this year. I don’t even think we’ve seen the obligatory flocks of robins yet. Or I could have missed them. I was a little preoccupied. First came the migratory birds. There’s something about hearing geese overhead that warms my heart, like the whole world’s awakening after winter. I’d like to say that we had wonderful spring rains, but we all know that didn’t happen. I fear we’re in for a serious drought and a very dry summer. It wouldn’t be the first time, but in no world is it good. The recent fires should bear this out.

Gov. Greg Abbott halted the state’s aggressive truck inspection at all Texas border crossings after days of bipartisan criticism over the extended delays of goods entering the United States.

It’s been a weird spring all around. Not just what’s happening in Ukraine, at our own southern border or in DC. Or COVID concerns, the economy, shortages, supply chain issues and higher prices. I was thinking more about weather, fires and flowers. I can’t do much to control any of those things either.

You just might notice that starting with today’s edition, the size of the newspaper is just a wee bit smaller. We have finally joined with many newspapers across the country and have had our press cut down to 22” or 11” pages. The length of the paper remains the same.

It is a great honor to serve Valley Mills as your new Postmaster. In my 16 years with the United States Postal Service, I have seen firsthand the role the Postal Service plays connecting neighbors and our community to the nation. Our Post Offices serve as a lifeline for our small businesses to reach customers no matter where they are.

Another County Wide Yard Sale’s in the books! April Fool’s Day was auspicious timing, but I enjoyed it, regardless. I look forward to this event each year and rarely miss it. There’s the thrill of the hunt, exhausting as it is, hoping to find a treasure or bargain. I see people I’ve not seen in ages--- or in “COVID Years” as my son describes the last two, warped segments of time.