A piece of paper can be history. When our girls were growing up, we taught them to write thank you notes by doing them regularly. And we usually made them by hand. My oldest daughter continues that tradition with her children, especially Leo who is five now. He can draw well and can spell his own name. A handmade card can become a piece of history.
Last week my friend Jim was texting me about Maggie, my oldest daughter, asking for her contact and when she would be at her office in town. I had no idea what this was about. Later Maggie texted me for Jim’s address. I still was not sure what was going on, but I figured Maggie was writing him a note.
Then I received two pictures from her in our sisters group text.
Maggie sent photos of the relic from 1993. Our family had attended the first Live Oak Tree Festival, which was held again this weekend. It’s now a part of our city’s long list of spring festivals. Jim created it after Hurricane Andrew (circa 1992) had taken many of our precious live oak trees. The live oaks saved New Iberia from the complete devastation of that category 5 storm. We owed them a festival. Now in its 31st year, it’s grown to more than a petting zoo, donkey rides, and paper making crafts. I was touched by Jim’s gesture. I wouldn’t be surprised if Maggie frames the handmade thank you note.
Dear Mr. Jim,
Thank you for the tree festival. My favorite part was the papermak
eing and Katherine liked the African dancers in the mud. Martha’s favorate thing was the glueing fabrik leaves on trees and the music. We hope you do it again next year!Sincerely,
Maggie and family
Reflections on the Teche 