President’s Blog December 2024
“Gone but not forgotten”
I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Ours was very quiet and peaceful. We enjoyed great company, spectacular food and watched a bunch of football. It was a very relaxing day.
As I get older I find myself reflecting on my upbringing and living in Lovell Maine. In the building that now houses Kezar Realty and Diane’s Creations, was the immortal Craig’s General Store. I spent many hours hanging around the store. It was where all the “town fathers” would meet up and tell stories. It was set up just like an old movie set. A couple of small tables, 6 or 8 chairs, soft crooked floors, 4 narrow aisles and a deli case in the back. You could get food, ammo, fishing tackles and motor oil all within a few steps. I can see the store like it was only yesterday, but the stories and characters are what I really miss. When the fore fathers were “on a roll” telling stories, it was very hard to focus on anything else.
When you are a young lad, you convince yourself that all these town icons will live forever. I certainly felt that way. I remember the day that we lost Norris Bennett. I just could not believe it. I was sure he would live forever. Then there was Dave Mason, Norm Hodgeton, John Chandler Sr. and my father. These men were and are the history of Lovell Maine.
Last week we lost another historian and fore father, Albert Stearns. He was one of the kindest and most sincere men that I have ever met. He always wanted to know how the golf course was doing and would follow that with “How’s your family?” Then usually; “I miss seeing your father and I’m sure you do too.” I think of all the great role models that I have had in my life. They may be gone but will never be forgotten.
The Christmas season can be stressful and even overwhelming at times. My only advice I have is to “keep everything in perspective.” Love is the greatest gift.
Another cure for stress can be laughter. A joke, a video or just a blooper can produce a good belly laugh. I apologize in advance for those that have heard this before!
Mrs. Hill’s 4th grade class was studying English. She spoke to the class and asked “Would someone use the word fascinate in a sentence? Darby waved her hand feverishly and shouted out, “We went to the zoo last weekend and it was very fascinating.” Mrs. Hill replied, “that is a good try, but I was looking for the word fascinate.” Johnnie raised his hand and announced, “All my family watched a movie this weekend and we were all fascinated by the ending.” Mrs. Hill again replied, “That is a good try Johnnie but I’m looking for the word fascinate. The class was very quiet but after a couple minutes little Billy raised his hand. Mrs. Hill hesitated but called on the little rebel. “Go ahead Billy, give it a try.” Billy stood up and proudly stated, “My aunt and uncle came to my house for Thanksgiving. My aunt had on a beautiful thanksgiving sweater with 10 buttons. The only problem she had was her chest is so large that she could only fascinate.”
Merry Christmas!
Brad
