We Southerners love things that are sweet. We can whip up a dessert out of almost anything in the world: fruits, vegetables, even stale bread — all may end up in concoctions worthy of being served on Mount Olympus.
Our favorite barbecue sauces include honey or brown sugar in the recipes. Sweet tea is known as the table wine of the South. Even our ubiquitous insult, “Well, bless your hear-art,” has a touch of syrup in the jab.
No matter how you look at it, we thrive on things that are sugary and filled with delight, especially in our homes. Most of the folks I know are animal lovers. They like to cuddle up with the furry family members who adore them. Wagging tails and deep purrs express the joy of being near their “parents.” Few things are sweeter than the love they give us.
Our three “children” are all former residents of animal shelters. Our boy-cat, Loa, is the last of those who traveled with us through that horrible night when we landed in Columbus, just ahead of a witch named Katrina. The girls, Charlotte Russe and Freda Jolie, joined our family after a stay in the Columbus-Lowndes Human Society shelter.
I can’t express how much we love them, and how they have enriched our lives. For those who feel the same way, or who may have added to your family at the CLHS, mark your calendars for the First Annual Family Reunion on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will be held at the new shelter, located at 50 Airline Road.
I’m looking forward to showing off my babies. Of course, they will be the prettiest ones there.
There are still opportunities available for vendors who offer pet-friendly products or services, such as groomers, photographers or bakers. My girls love homemade treats. I hope someone will be selling those. Of course, Charlotte and Freda are girly-girls (just like their mama) and would enjoy shopping for some new collars with a bit of bling on them.
If you are interested in displaying your creations for the pet-centric population or have a prize to donate, contact [email protected] or [email protected].
Did you also know that the CLHS has a rummage sale once a month? I just learned this.
You can browse the bazaar on the first Saturday of every month, 9 a.m. to noon, at our old shelter at 13 Airline Road. The list of items they accept as donations is as long as all the tails at the shelter laid end to end. But, do check out the list before you go. You can find it on the Columbus-Lowndes Humane Society’s Facebook page. The CLHS is a 501(c) (3) charitable organization, so donations are tax deductible. Call 662-327-3107 if you have questions.
My life is filled with sweetness from three wonderful “children.” However, there is much more love and affection available. At the Humane Society you can volunteer, donate, or find the most selfless love you will ever experience. It can only make you sweeter, as well.
Adele Elliott, a New Orleans native, moved to Columbus after Hurricane Katrina.
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