By Ivalien Reynolds

Sure was nice to see a few days of sunshine in between storms and many rainy periods. Seems the weather has changed a lot over the years. We are so blessed in our area not to have a lot of flooding.

Here it is, October and September went so fast, I hardly saw it. But on Sept. 27, I got a big surprise that I never expected. Five years ago when I turned 80 years – my friends and neighbors surprised me with a party at Elizabeth’s Pizza. On Sept. 27, this year, I thought I was going out to eat with Mike and Sue Hall and grandson, Hody – and they surprised me again with a big party and lots of people at Elizabeth’s Pizza. Thanks to everyone who came and for all the gifts. Mary Ann sent a beautiful vase of flowers. I’m so thankful for good friends and neighbors.

Harry Wood, of Tennessee, visited his mother, Claudine Wood recently. He brought lots of goodies. It was a good day for Claudine.

So sorry to hear of the death of Mr. Raymond Hall. My love and heartfelt sympathy to the family. Raymond always had a smile when he was able to come to church.

Stopped by All Seasons to get some mums. Stanley had got pumpkins in and had some in that is called Mr. Ugly. It’s amazing what they can grow these days.

I was saddened to hear of my friend, Mae Mabe’s death. Over the years, Mae has given me a lot of snowmen and cookbooks and her friendship. Heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family.

Thanks to Mark and Beverly Woody for the beautiful flowers for my birthday and the telephone call.

“Miss” Claudine Wood up on the mountain enjoyed some ladies of the church coming by. They had a nice time.

Good to hear from my cousin Shirlien Belcher by telephone the other night. She seemed to be doing well.

Thanks to Curtis for fixing my mailbox.

Food for thought– Only God can turn heartache into hope; despair into deliverance.

Tamale Pie

1 cup 1 percent milk

1 tsp salt substitute

3/4 cups corn chips

1 egg, slightly beaten

1 1/2 cup corn niblets

1 onion, chopped

1/2 green pepper, chopped

2 cups stewed tomatoes

Pinch – garlic salt

Combine milk and salt. Heat milk up to just boiling. Combine corn chips with hot milk and stir until smooth. Add egg and corn to mixture. Stir well. Sauté onion and pepper in non-stick frying pan coated with cooking spray. Add tomatoes and garlic and bring to a boil. Combine with corn mixture; pour into a casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Yields 6 servings.