Columns

This is not a woe is me article. It’s proof that with belief, a willingness to fail, and some encouraging words from friends and family members, anything is possible. Quick background—by now regular readers will likely know I lost my leg above the knee two years ago due to a bad infection. Back in November 2016 I woke up from my surgery in the Kaiser Santa Rosa I.C.U to the television declaring Donald Trump the new president of the United States. Let’s just say it wasn’t the best day of my life.

Looking for a lost pet or a new four-legged friend? See the list of incoming strays and the slideshow (above) of cats and dogs available for adoption from the Sonoma Humane Society, Healdsburg Center.

Thanksgiving presents itself in a simple gathering of food and family. It requires no tree in the living room, no retrieval of dusty ornament boxes, no cards, no gifts that usually miss their mark. It is all good eating and camaraderie.

Eyes closed I can feel the rays warm my face as the sun rises over the mountain. It is early morning and quiet. I sit in my backyard grateful and thankful we live in Sonoma County.

Always the most repeated and appreciated blessing we hear at local Thanksgiving tables is how we live among so many generous and gratitude-filled people and communities, even as Sonoma County has not been without tragedy, unmet needs and disputes. We’ve endured historic wildfires, loss of life, rising homelessness and new uncertainties. Yet, we remain #SonomaStrong, hopeful, faithful and determined. Witness how many of us today are on the giving side of the Thanksgiving free food lines and community dinners. Let’s remember that “mixed blessings” are still blessings.

Walk into Healdsburg Elementary School these days and you’ll be greeted by a mural that is sure to make you smile.

100 years ago – November 14, 1918

It’s a time for giving thanks for our little ‘Burg. Please send your holiday or wintery news items to [email protected]. “Hedda Healdsburg” wants to know all.  

Walk into Healdsburg Elementary School these days and you’ll be greeted by a mural that is sure to make you smile.

A week ago my dad came to Windsor for a quick visit. I had asked him to help me get some glasses for the computer, and instead of mailing back the glasses, he decided to bring them to me. We didn’t do anything special—just hung out, ordered some Chinese food from Yinking, and then had breakfast the next morning at Omelette Express as he was leaving town to head back up to Magalia.