We’ve gotten through the doldrums of early January, that rather quiet and bittersweet time when we say goodbye to the holidays and prepare to move on into a new year.

Some of us are still fighting off the illnesses of the season. Hacking coughs are still heard off and on in the newspaper office.

As for myself, these weather swings, from cold to warm and dry to wet, play havoc in a way that makes one feel absolutely ancient at times.

My spirit says, &uot;Yes! Yes!&uot; but my body says, &uot;Forget it, old girl.&uot;

Due to being &uot;under the weather&uot;, I missed out on a few things along the way I really wanted to attend. I’d like to take note of these events along with other upcoming activities…

The kick-off meeting for the new Greenville Area Newcomers and Neighbors Club was a big success. President Trina Alexander tells me 70 ladies attended Spa Night and there are now more than 50 members of the club – very impressive!

The next meeting is slated for Feb. 19 at the First Baptist FLC…Trina tells me they plan to award the first of the club’s Monthly Butterfly Awards to

members who have devoted their time and effort to making the organization a success. A &uot;high tea&uot; party is planned for March – sounds like fun!

If you would like to learn more about this organization (one that’s devoted to fun, fellowship and friendship among new and old faces in these parts) contact Trina Alexander at 382-0098.

The Sasanqua Garden Club had guest speaker Jim Scott for their January meeting. Scott has a gorgeous home on Lake Martin. The home’s extensive and amazing garden has been featured in the prestigious ‘Southern Accents’ magazine…club president Jo Weitman says the garden club is planning a &uot;field trip&uot; in the spring to see this fairyland firsthand. I’d better be feeling bright-eyed and bushy-tailed on that particular day!

I also missed Kay Ivey’s recent visit to Greenville. Our dynamic state treasurer spoke to the Kiwanis Club…I understand she had the audience in the palm of her hand.

Congratulations to the Butler County Historical and Genealogical Society on the celebration of their 40th anniversary.

In spite of inclement weather, there was a good turnout for the organization’s quarterly meeting at City Hall on Sunday. In the foyer, beautiful camellias abounded – in spite of the recent lengthy cold snap.

The BCHS’ 15 living charter members were all recognized.

Andrew Gerachis of the Alabama Historical Commission was the guest speaker. Andrew, coordinator for the state’s Main Street Program, is familiar to many of those who participated in the Notre Dame project. He reminded us of what a gem the Camellia City is – and the steps we need to take to preserve this southern treasure.

Until next week!

Angie Long is the Lifestyles writer for the Greenville Advocate.

She can be reached at 382-3111 or via email at angie.long@greenvilleadvocate.com.

Also, write her c/o Greenville Advocate, P.O. Box 507, Greenville, AL 36037.