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A little thankfulness after the holidays
Emily Plihal
for Smoky River Express
I’m feeling a little cheesy again this week, so I’m going to talk about everything that I’m thankful for.
This week, our small newspaper was extended to a 36-pager, something unheard of in our typically 12-28 page spread. Stress in the office was at a peak, and Susan, Faye and I were running around like chickens with our heads cut off.
Seemingly appropriate right after Thanksgiving, I want to extend a great amount of thanks to all the business people in our region.
Although I grew up in Falher, there are a number of individuals in McLennan that I have never had the opportunity to meet. Last week I had the pleasure of meeting many business owners in the community that showed me why living in a small community is so wonderful.
Our boisterous communities of Falher, McLennan, Girouxville, Donnelly, Jean Cote, Guy and all the farm communities along the way, are filled with extraordinary people. Sure, there may be some disagreements throughout the course of a year, but all the individuals I have had the opportunity to meet are amazing.
We probably should recognize how important the values we learn through our small communities are. Growing up in our region, I learned that hard work and determination can in fact get you a long way in life. Just because our area is small does not set limitations for our children and grandchildren. In fact, I believe our offspring may actually have an advantage over those in a larger centre.
Firstly, we grow up knowing essentially everybody. If we haven’t met, we have heard of one another’s family name or history. We are born into a community that welcomes new families, new ideas and new businesses.
Our children learn to communicate with individuals of all ages. Our children have the opportunity to listen to the “grandmas” and “grandpas” of the area. In my short life, I’ve discovered how much can be learned by listening to our elders.
It is amazing the number of stories from the past that can teach us morals and scruples.
I’m thankful for the opportunity to meet individuals daily who are grateful for being in a peaceful environment.
My girls at work have been trying to keep me sane for the past few weeks. This week with 40 pages, trying to wrap up the economic development magazine, and managing the lounge, I have been extraordinarily stressed out.
Actually, I think my girls from work are plotting something, but I am not completely sure what it could be.
Susan keeps me grounded by making sure coffee is made early in the morning, and Faye’s somewhat inappropriate jokes make me laugh.
This month seems to be speeding along just like the last nine have.
If you all feel like I do, this year has been a trial of stress and decisions.
There are many things to be thankful for this year though. At the top of my priority list are all my friends and family, who despite my sometimes cranky air, still love me and tolerate me.
You are all angels in my books.
I am also thankful for hunting and hockey, the two things in my life that take the edge away.
This is the best time of the year, and I will try not to complain for the next eight months. Thank goodness for fall, winter and spring.
To all of you who read our newspaper each week, thank you.
You give us such great ideas for articles and support our passion for writing. Thanks again!
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