•    •  October

Dear friend, My heart broke this afternoon as I listened to your story and tried to understand even a fraction of the horror you've lived through. I knew bits and pieces from the brief notes you've sent me before, but those messages came across many miles and through a computer screen. I couldn't see your eyes or hear your voice like I did today across the small round table that separated us.

How about a piece of Southern Americana? This is Mammy's Resturant. She stands south of Natchez, MS on Highway 61, and yes, she's open. I snapped her picture on the way home from the Louisiana Book Festival in Baton Rouge, LA. What an icon, that Mammy. I remember the first time I heard my own Mother say that Mammy had been a popular hangout for her high school friends.

The next time you see fresh blueberries or blackberries at the store I want you to think of me and my Berry Breakfast Bread. Let me show you how to stir it up! 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (or blackberries) 4 lightly beaten eggs 2 cups of sour cream 1 cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon vanilla

She was born in the charity ward of a Georgia hospital on December the 11th, 1944. Five years later she won top prize singing in a talent contest. The achievement led to repeat performances on an Atlanta radio station and a regular singing job on local television WAGA-TV, all by the age of seven. The television job offered publicity, the radio gig paid in ice

*****I'm posting y'all, because this is our official All Things Southern Thanksgiving Challenge. After reading this post, consider asking those loved ones you gather with this Thursday to join you in rescuing a child trapped in sex-trafficking. $128 will free a child. Can y'all join together and do it as a way of expressing your gratitude this year? I'd love to hear from you! *******2nd update- I'll