Shady Character Serve Up the Vittles

After plucking on Thursday and cooking on Friday, the Shady Characters gathered with the 'regulars' at The People's Table to dish up piping hot chicken pot pie (Peggy's recipe!) and beautiful fried apples, with a crispy salad and toasty bread on the side.  The first snow of the winter didn't keep the crowd away and, with school out, we had the pleasure of some young 'uns.  Thank you Nick, Bennett, Kyle, Gracie, Mimi, Tucker and Kurt for the extra hands.  As we gathered, Eddie Baker read a portion of the Christmas story before blessing the meal, bringing the focus on the Reason for the Season.  Then happy smiles were exchanged as tummies were filled and hearts warmed.  

Shady, Lazy Day on the Duck

The Shady Characters flotilla of canoes and kayaks departed the Riverside boat ramp and headed out for the 'bridge and tire' tour of the Duck River on a picture-perfect day.  Betsy's careful paddling guaranteed safe delivery of her seasonal centerpiece and Melinda Houston's wonderful brown bag lunch was enjoyed after we beached our vessels at nature's rest stop. Once again, the gals from Higher Pursuits led us safely downstream while at the same time sharing tidbits of history and lore of the River.  Karen Vest's expertise in aviary helped spot local birds like the Kingfisher and Blue Heron (no eagle sighting today). Be ready when Gale gives a pop quiz on the length of the Duck - 269 miles, bill to tail.  

PS. No, the SCGC hasn't expanded to include men - we interrupted Gilly Orr and friend's fishing.  We exchanged 'hey's while smoking them in our wakes.

Shady Creek Stomping at Greenway

Hanging out in the treehouse, creek stomping, zip line, pole walking......who says Shady Characters ever really grow up?!?  Elizabeth helped us reconnect with the child in all of us as we met for a quick meeting on the front porch at Greenway, then headed to the woods.  Our new members were announced and will hopefully all join us at our next meeting.  A colorful, yummy lunch was prepared for us by Kristi and dessert doubled as a birthday cake for our four members with September birthdays - Julia, Carroll, Peggy and Hynie.  But don't be confused - like a tall shade tree, these gals provide shelter, comfort, protection and support for those they love.....and shake their branches in the wild wind of life.  Remember - we'll act old LATER!