The new year finds most of us returning to our daily routines of work and school, and reflecting on memories made over the holiday season.
We will sweep up the remaining pine needles from the corners of our floors, just as we may have "swept" the struggles of 2011 away in hopes that 2012 will bring favour in our lives.
We will pack away those last decorations and find homes for the new additions of gifts in our homes, just as we carefully put away some of the memories of the past year, and find hope in new goals and dreams for the new year.
Let's all hope for a prosperous and healthy new year as we reach out to one another and be encouragers and motivators to everyone we meet.
Welcome back
Horse Lake Elementary School is easing into the new year after a nice holiday break, with basketball and wrestling starting noon-hour practices for the Grade 6 and 7 students.
A big thank-you goes out to Sandi Kennedy, Corinne Moore, Monica Jacobson, Sandra Dixon, Irene Tinney, Katherine Mitchell, Holly Huryn and all of the Grade 7 gift wrappers for all their help in the Christmas store.
Kindergarten registration is open for 2012/13 and minor softball registrations will be taken on Feb. 4 and Feb. 25 at the A&W from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Remember to come dressed appropriately as this mild weather may not stick around forever and your children might find themselves chilled with a crisp wind or falling temperatures while waiting for buses or school bells.
For the next 10 weeks, the school welcomes student teacher Katie Clark who will be helping in Mike Davidson's Grade 5/6 class.
Kept busy
The Lone Butte Volunteer Fire Department was kept busy in December with numerous callouts, which included several motor-vehicle incidents and a half dozen first responder calls.
Remember that with the recent mild weather, the snow is melting and it can quickly turn to into icy, dangerous, driving conditions when the temperature drops in the evening. Please drive defensively.
AGM slated
The Lone Butte Fish & Wildlife Association (LBFWA) annual general meeting will be held on Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. in the Lone Butte Community Hall.
If you haven't picked up your game banquet tickets for Feb. 25, you can do so at Exeter Sporting Goods for $40 each.
Snowmobile and all terrain vehicle drivers are also reminded to renew your insurance as well as your membership to the LBFWA. Call George Ostoforoff at 250-395-4027 for more information.
Celebration
Birthday wishes go out to Ken Schmidt of Lone Butte on Jan. 14.
O.U.T. back in
The local O.U.T. group of gals has its first get-together of the year on Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. at the Lone Butte Community Hall.
Bring a friend and your latest craft, sewing, knitting, or stitching project. This is a great group of gals who have a lot of fun if you are looking for a fun morning out.
Hall construction
The community association is looking for some structural maintenance to be done on the hall.
If you are interested in finding out more, please call the writer.
If you have community events, get-well, birthday or anniversary wishes or news you would like to share, please call me at 250-644-1555, or e-mail to triumph750@bcwireless.com.
I would love to hear from you, and can use your help in keeping the column full of interesting information.