Snow/ice/freezing rain in January/February
The Monks coming to SC/NC
Venezuela invasion
ICE kills
Parkin Latte replacing Wisefire, new beginning
Trash pickup gone in cities
The weather is consistency erratic in January and currently it's no different. We do, however, need some winter weather/precipitation to clear the aif air and kill off bugs and pests. There's a part of this current flu/illness going around that's due to the weather. Also those of us that reside in the Carolinas must realize the coldest weather comes in February and early March. There's still hope!
The Monks marching from Texas to Washington, DC and coming through the Carolinas is huge news. There a few things I don't like regarding how they're being treated (and not just the incident in GA). First bear in mind I grew up Christian and in a Christian household. I know what Christianity should look like. I also know that despite the Buddhist Monks having different beliefs than me doesn't mean I should treat them differently. They are about promoting inner peace and discipline. Secondly, they are kind and stoic. They are doing this as part of their faith, not for likes nor clicks. Therefore, if I do get to see them within the coming weeks, I am going to follow guidelines, keep my distance and get pictures if I can. It won't be a celebrity moment.
I don't allow politics too often on the deck (this isn't the barbershop sorry nor Levor Ross's home). However what I am seeing right now is redundant and sickening. The US has now invaded Venezuela. I am seeing both the positives and negatives. I really want things to turn out well for Venezuela. However I see benefit for the USA such as rich oil resources and US taking over a country rather than helping it. I encourage everyone to study for themselves and not just pick a side based on political beliefs.
The ICE invasions, while warranted to a point, are not very contained nor fair at all. It is inhumane how they're behaving right now. I felt this way before the person lost their life. I'm just hoping now that our government and executive branch gets a handle on this.
I'm very excited about a new coffee shop coming to Blacksburg where Wisefire Cafe used to be for 6 years and was my hangout. It's even more special that it's Parkin Latte, a business I'm very familiar with and I've seen/visited in Clover, SC. I know many locals are skeptical and are waiting to see what is going to come. Many, especially those that were Wisefire regulars, are looking at how the owners painted everything pink (bear in mind their truck is pink). However I've met the owner, Briana Harris and her barista, Whitney. They are battle tested in small towns and know the consumer. They will have to really get the buy in from Cherokee County in general and listen to their needs. I'm very confident they can deliver and make 113 North Shelby Street a happening spot once again!
Gaffney's County Council continues to make controversial decisions as 2026 is only a week old. Trash pickup has been removed for those living in city limits now. Tax rebates/refunds are obviously coming. While this looks grim, I will say that many adjustments were expected once Limestone University closed. Now I'm wondering what's next.
The College Football Playoff continues as well as basketball everywhere. Next time we reconvene we may have on our Carhardt gear and camo on!
