By VERNA BROCK

I hope everyone had a blessed Holy Week and Easter. We all love the chocolate bunnies and Easter bonnets, but the real message is even more meaningful. How great the love of our Creator, to provide a pathway to reconciliation between us, Him, and our world! The words of the great old hymn, “I love to tell the story, for those who know it best, are hungering and thirsting, to hear it like the rest!” have never been more true.

The teams of students from Wakulla County who traveled to Orlando to compete in the state Odyssey of the Mind challenge all made strong showings. None of our contestants made it to the World Trials, but you can be proud of their accomplishments.

I am heartily tired of dealing with the bountiful supplies of oak and pine pollen. My sinuses are about ready to cry “Uncle!” and give up the ghost. Hopefully, we’re at the tail end of allergy season, at least for a little while. Meanwhile, flowers wild, and domestic, are blooming prettily along our byways. The ditches are full of lillies, and the woods are full of wild Cherokee roses, dogwood and tung tree blossoms, as well as stalks of wild purple salvia.
My daffodils, tulips, and California poppies are springing up, and my roses are beginning to put on a show. My fingers are itching to dig some dirt and plant some annuals. If only my sinuses would settle down…

On several occasions over the past few weeks, I have spotted a Bald Eagle traversing Woodville Highway. He has found fresh carrion upon which to feast, and seems to like flying over the roadway to gain altitude. Keep your eyes peeled. He is a majestic sight.
Meanwhile, back on terra firma, critters of all shapes and sizes are on the move. Beware of errant bears, deer, squirrels, raccoons, and possums wandering into traffic. No doubt, brother Eagle and his Buzzard cousins appreciate your offerings, but that can sure play havoc with your fenders!

I am happy to report Clem Bunker continues to do well with her rehab, as does Ms. Norma Woodcock. Thelma Watts covets our prayers , as does Jimmy Gainey. Please keep Deborah Giles in your prayers also. Please hold the families of the men lost to the destruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore close in prayer too.