My passion for reading every word in my hometown paper has not demisted a bit since I lived in an Atlanta boarding house as roommates with six friends from home: Fran Willis, Betty Jean Sutton, Omah Beddingfield and me. Our attractions to this roomy home on Ponce de Leon Avenue was more than economy, convenience, two square meals daily and the thrill of living in this exciting city. We did miss Swainsboro. When we arrived home on Thursday afternoon, we raced to the mailbox for that was the day our Blade arrived. It was passed from hand to hand, and we discussed each page. Now I do not know which day I will receive my weekly copy. Since my address changes often, it arrives at my daughter’s home, and she delivers to me. When I open the Blade, it is like a trip home. I scan every page looking for names that I remember so well. The latest addition is a treasure of such with Ida Belle Williams Book Club Charter Members. I did not know this distinguished educator well, but many others are branded on my heart. Sue Standford started the 4-H Club. Beloved teacher Becky Schwabe, and my piano teacher, Celestine Williams, are unforgettable names. La’Rose Tapley reminds us of valued book Stone Soup. The Harvey’s ad even brought back the memory of green boiling peanuts. Nothing can replace boiled peanuts we munched at a Tiger football game. I look forward to every edition I receive. My mother was business manager of The Blade for many years. On Wednesday evening, everyone worked late to have the paper completed and ready for delivery. I had a responsibility to come directly to the office and help. I rolled copies that were to be mailed and wrote addresses on outside. I loved doing this and especially the payment of a hamburger supper from the Busy Bee Café on the Square.
