I had so many plans for my day off last week. Steve was going to be golfing and I was hoping to also take advantage of the moderate weather by tackling the final cleanup in the flower beds and maybe even mow the lawn one more time. That was the plan.

Unfortunately, my day off began at 5 a.m. and extended into a two-day heave-fest with my body attempting to squeeze every drop of moisture from itself. Apparently, I had eaten something that needed to be expelled and so it was.

It is now a full week after the alleged food poisoning but the effects are still lingering. My appetite is finally returning but can only tolerate the wonderfully bland BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast).

Every morsel of food is suspect. I inspect the “sell by” dates and I don’t even bother to sniff. Anything that looks even remotely funny is quickly disposed of. I think twice about any kind of prepared, packaged foods. Thanksgiving dinner at my house is going to be made from scratch, believe me!



Toys collected at local “Toys for Tots” drop-offs will be distributed by the Love Center and Veterans of Vietnam War Post 51 to families with children in Jersey Shore Area, Montoursville Area, Montgomery Area, and East Lycoming (Hughesville) school districts. Please be generous.



On Saturday, Nov. 22, at 1 p.m., the Lycoming County Genealogical Society will meet at the Thomas Tabor Museum, located at the corner of Maynard and 4th Streets in Williamsport. Representing the Lycoming County Veterans Affairs Office, I will present a program entitled “17,000 and Still Counting – Keeping Track of our Deceased Veterans.”



On Sunday, Nov. 23, at 7 p.m., the First Presbyterian Church, 401 Main St. in Watsontown, will host a Community Thanksgiving Service, sponsored by the Warrior Run Ministerium. The Rev. Dan May, pastor at Holy Spirit Evangelical Lutheran Church, Turbotville, will deliver the message. Special music will be given by the First Presbyterian Church Praise Team and the Adult Choir. For further information, contact the church at 538-1491.



On Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., there will be a free clothing distribution at the Methodist Church, 43 West Houston Avenue, Montgomery. Adult and children’s clothing will be available as well as some household items. Call 547-1196 for more infomration.



On Saturday, Dec. 6, beginning at 4 p.m., the Watsontown United Methodist Church, 11 E. Third St., will hold a baked steak dinner. The cost will be $7.50 for adults and $4 for children ages 5-12. For further information, contact the church office at 538-1017.



On Wednesday, December 10, 4:30 to 6 p.m., the St. John Lutheran “Brick” Church will hold a Meatloaf Dinner, served family style. Featured will be meatloaf, baked potatoes, candied carrots, cole slaw, beverage and dessert; cost: $8.00 adults; children age 6 through 10, $4.00; children under 6 free. Take outs available, call 547-6423.