“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.”

~ Winnie the Pooh

I spent more time than expected in balmy Florida thanks to kind hosts who put up with me, and upon returning home recently, was delighted to find promises of spring in the mountain air.

As an extra treat, I even managed to get some outdoor painting time while hanging out with Pooh Bear over the weekend—the sun felt delicious to both of us.

Of course, winter isn’t quite done with us yet, as can be remembered from last February’s weather. Take it easy, Mother Nature!

Special notes: Happy Anniversary to Saluda, which was granted a charter by the N.C. Legislature on Feb. 1, 1881.

Saluda is planning a year-long celebration! Starting with an open house from 11-3 on Feb. 5 at the Saluda Police Department and City Hall, the public is invited to come by for refreshments and to view historical pictures.

The Historic Saluda Committee will feature planned restorations of the building, as well. You can find more information at www.cityofsaludanc.com or call 749-2581.

Saluda has managed to retain much of its small town character and charm — how lucky we are to have that magic still left — it can’t be ever taken for granted!

My house was built for the first mayor of Saluda, a fact which has always interested me. In the crawl space, I’ve found remnants of coal, which once was used to heat this white elephant, and also a sliver dime in the front yard.

Hugh Morgan used to tell me stories about the front yard boxwoods, which are ‘vintage’ too. Around here, cracks, off-plumb corners and creaks are all wonderful imperfections that make an antique house full of charm.

Community notes: The Saluda Women’s Club will present several cast members from TLT’s “Oliver” production at their Feb. 8 meeting, 10 a.m., at Saluda Presbyterian Church’s fellowship hall.

If you’d like to join, please contact Anita Moore for more information at 749-3335.

February birthdays include: Wylie Rauschenbach, Wesley Pace, Biddie Dawson, Paul Gosselin, Amy Beeson, R. Lindsay, W.B.Jones.

Reminder notes: Keep in mind our Saluda Community Land Trust (www.saludaclt.org). Joining/renewing is only $25 a year — it’s a tax-exempt organization.

Did you know SCLT has helped protect farms, works on conservation easements and has long-term projects going such as protecting land along the Pacolet River? Also SCLT has worked tirelessly on conserving land in a commercial area, upgrading the community garden on Henderson Street, creating a nature park within Saluda, assisting property owners with conservation easements on their land and more.

The SCLT board meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m., either at the McCreery Park pavilion in good weather, or at their office upstairs in the Saluda Presbyterian Church.

Art notes: On Feb. 4, be sure to drop by the literary/coffeehouse evening at Upstairs Artspace in Tryon. Bring your work to share: poetry, drama, short stories … it’s all welcome, and you get 10 minutes to do your thing with an appreciative audience! Doors open at 6:30.

While in, you’ll be able to enjoy a special art exhibit by area high school students.

Feel free to e-mail me at bbardos@gmail.com; or call me at 749-1153. You may also visit my website at bonniebardos.com.