“Wherever you are is always the right place. There is never a need to fix anything, to hitch up the bootstraps of the soul and start at some higher place. Start right where you are.”
~ Julia Cameron

Welcome to January 2012 Saluda news and notations! Somehow the New Year arrived faster than expected! Around here, the old year was one of constant ups and downs, nothing in between. While this one’s still young, it’s time to reflect and think on the possibilities and changes ahead. On my kitchen counter, there’s no long detailed list of resolutions: you could call mine the short-list! Lose one pound. Save one dollar. Donate one thing. Give one compliment. Do one kindness a day.
Small things become great things, one step at a time. Plus, it’s more realistic than grandiose save-the-world resolutions that fall by the wayside by February! I’ve also been ‘shopping’ the Shar-Pei rescue sites. Often my problem is I want them ALL. Again, just one. Just one can make all the difference. Life’s too short to go without the love of a good dog.
Another thing that is high on the gratitude list is good people in my life. As discussed at a wonderful New Year’s Eve party, that was one topic that everyone agreed on: that there are many, many good people in this area.
By the time you read this, I hope to be on my way to Sarasota, Fla. for a winter respite thanks to good people who take mercy on me. White sand, turquoise waters, some tropical foliage and exploring the Pineapple District will refresh the spirit. This time, I hope to head out to Anna Maria Island to paint and write a little and daydream with sea birds and soft breezes.
Happy January Birthday to Foster Archer, Brandy Bradley, Alex Bardos, Carolyn Ashburn, Scott Kinard, Donna Bond, Greer Eargle, Wyatt Alan Pace, Irma Anderson, Paul Aaybe, Rich Rauschenbach, Phyllis Arrington; and Susan Casey on New Year’s Eve.
Happy Anniversary to historic Thompson’s Store, which reopened a year ago! Judy Ward, Clark Thompson and staff have worked tirelessly on renovating and returning a vibrant business to our town. Also, Happy Anniversary to Heartwood Gallery, which celebrates 27 years of featuring American craft.
Train buffs take note! Charlene Pace says the historic train calendar with 16 train pictures is  available at several downtown businesses- or call Charlene at 828-749-2641. The first train came through Saluda in 1878. This calendar is printed right here in Saluda and a percentage of proceeds go to the Saluda Volunteer Fire Department Auxillary fund to benefit needy children and families.
Please continue to remember Lloyd Thompson and family with the loss of his wife, Betty Jo. Betty was a special, friendly “Saluda” person, and will be missed.
Extra love, hugs and prayers are sent to Julie Foster Collins and her sweet daughter, Emorie, who has been undergoing chemo treatments in Asheville.
Saluda Women’s Club meets Jan. 10 at 10 a.m. at Saluda Presbyterian Church.
There’s a community potluck at the Saluda Center, Thursday, Jan. 12 at 6 p.m. Bring your favorite dish and enjoy watching the video of Saluda’s first Christmas parade and all the dogs that paw-raded!
Historic Saluda Committee and Oral History Committee meets on Jan. 13 at 2 p.m. at Saluda Library. Visit their brand-new website at historicsaluda.org.
Saluda Community Land Trust meets at 3 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday at Saluda Presbyterian Church.
Saluda Dog Society meets Jan. 16 at 1:15 p.m. at Saluda Library.
Single Women United potluck dinner will meet at Saluda Center, Thursday, Jan. 19 at 6 p.m.
Saluda Center will feature Saluda School student’s artwork through February: reception is Jan. 26, 5-7 p.m.
Thank you for reading this column; as ever, the goal is to make you, dear reader, feel like you’re enjoying a front porch visit with me — your comments are always wanted and valued.  Keep in mind if you have something of note, feel free to e-mail me at bbardos@gmail.com; or call me at 828-749-1153. You may also visit my website for writing, thoughts and painting at bonniebardos.com