The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

It's Time For Your Family Stories, Photos and Recipes

by Dessa Rodeffer
Quill Editor/Publisher

3 November 1999

All right folks. I realize I am not giving you a lot of time, but if you are like me, you will be more efficient at deadline.

It's time to get ready for the The Quill's Christmas Book to be given to all subcribers.

If you haven't gathered your recipes, written your stories, poems, and traditions, or given us some good craft ideas, plan to do it in the next ten days.

We are inviting each and everyone of you to participate in some way and would like to have your items as soon as possible so we can meet our deadline at the printers.

Some have asked if anyone can submit a story or picture. Yes, they can.

If you did a story last year, just tell a different one this year, but be sure to contribute again in some way.

Why don't the businesses encourage their employees to take part or vice-versa.

Encourage your neighbors and friends. Not only will it be a keep-sake of loved-ones, and friends, but also a timepiece telling Christmas highlights of a century soon to end.

It's pretty hard to believe the Nineties are almost over.

Racing into the high tech era of computers, microwaves, surround sound systems, and 4-wheelers and utility vehicles, makes you wonder what is in store for us in the next century.

The stories of the 1900s' are many, and they are precious. If only our ancestors had taken time to encourage everyone in the neighborhood to tell their story it could have been our traditional Christmas reading material.

The gifts we give today will be unique tomorrow. They might even become valuable in the auction market or on ebay.

Take a family photo or use something from days gone by, but preserve the stories and the moments that go by so quickly.

My grandchildren stayed overnight last weekend and it was such a pleasure.

They love to hear the stories of family, of our traditions and of special moments we shared over and over again.

They love to watch the same movies, sing the same songs that make us each feel secure and at home.

My grandchildren love to help me plant flowers, rake leaves, wash dishes, run the sweeper at age 7 and 5.

"I love to help," Drew tells me. Now isn't that worth writing down, so I can tell him over and over again as he grows older.

Seriously, moments are to be cherished. Help us save your good memories.