Courtesy photo Mollie Swindell paints more than her face at a recent block party.

Neighbors gather for a block party

Wendy’s word

He is a 7-pound, 7-ounce bundle of joy. Ten fingers, 10 toes and the sweetest head of blond hair you have ever seen. A perfect miracle, and he is my nephew. Andrew Clark Harris was born Sept. 14, and I count it a sincere privilege to have been at his delivery.

I watched his first bath and was amazed at the intricate details of his innocent, little body. From his tiny ears to the tapestry of small blood vessels just beneath the softest layer of newborn, baby skin — he is, indeed, a gift from God.

You cannot look at Baby Drew, or any other baby for that matter, and see anything but his awesome creator.

Don’t miss the magnificent miracles that happen every day.

Let’s see what the “chatter” is for today ...

Block party

What better thing to do on a beautiful summer day than getting together for food and fellowship with your neighbors, and that is just what families on Lancaster Avenue and Essex Drive did at their recent block party.

In a culture where many keep to themselves and neighbors seem to come and go in their own world, Leigh Anne Swindell, Robin Arndt and Allison Crow wanted to change that perception by organizing yummy snacks, games and family activities.

The party featured a potluck meal, with Gary Moody serving as the “chef du jour,” putting his grilling skills to work by flipping burgers and hotdogs to perfection.

To entertain the children, Cicily Crow organized face painting, water balloons, scooter and bike riding and even an inflatable castle, thanks to Alton Crow. The adults joined in for a communitywide volleyball tournament until Arndt’s dog, Buddy, ate the ball!

Neighbors enjoying the afternoon were Fred and Debbie Froscello; David, Leigh Anne, Jonathan, Anna and Mollie Swindell; Steve, Robin, Joshua and Jacob Arndt; Gary and Cecelia Moody; David and Debbie Miller; Marcia and Steve Bridgeford; Esco, Joan and Jim Olinger; Carl and Pat Kuby; Tom and Nellie Gates; Alton, Allison, Cicily and Carson Crow; Bonnie Young; Vince and Clara Provenza with family Cindy, Nikki, Kelsey and Brylee Yarbrough; and Emmitt, Tameka, Emmonte’, Brittany and Breanna Goode.

Volunteer orientation

Have some time on your hands and want to make a difference? Hospice of the Valley will hold a volunteer orientation Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Decatur office, 240 Johnston St. S. E.

There are many volunteer opportunities available, so come find out what might be the perfect fit for you.

Pre-registration is required and can be done by calling Connie Landers or Debbie McGregor at 350-5585.

Austin reunion

Austin High School’s Class of ’73 is working on plans for the 35th reunion.

Anyone interested should contact Vickie Nave Howard at 306-0124 or vicnranh@bellsouth.net.

Gala XXIII date set

Mark your calendars for Decatur’s annual evening spectacular, Gala XXIII. The excitement is set for Dec. 14, at Decatur Country Club.

Sponsored by the Decatur General Foundation, this year’s event will honor Lionel Z. Naylor Jr., MD and Ray Norris.

All proceeds from the event will benefit employee scholarships at Decatur General, as well as the hospital’s Oncology Center.

Watch for more details as the night grows closer.

That’s all for now. It’s been great “chattin” with ya!

Let me know what is going on in your little corner of the world. If it’s special to you and features any of the great people who live in our community, then it will make a great Chatterbox item. Just e-mail me at ddchatterbox@yahoo.com, or call me at 350-5730. I look forward to hearing from you.

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