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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Managing Editor

This spring has been full of severe weather for my part of the county.

One recent storm took out the power pole near the end of the driveway and kept me and my husband from being able to get out of the driveway because of downed wires.

Electricity is something that is so easy to take for granted. I do not often think about how many things I do that require electricity until it is gone.

I am extremely grateful to the electric company employees that came out and replaced the pole and lines. Utility line workers are heroes. While I do not have any lifesaving equipment that runs on electricity, I know some people do and a timely fix is crucial.

I was also extremely thankful that day for an electrician who was available the same day as when I called and ensured that the line from my house to the pole could be reconnected.

The simple things in life often go unnoticed, but appreciating them can make life fuller and more meaningful.

Those who know me well will attest that simple things make me smile. Catching glimpse of a rabbit in the yard as it bounds away or watching a honeybee as it flies from flower to flower — these things bring a smile to my face.

This summer Chilton County has plenty of reason to appreciate things that once had been taken for granted but had been missing last year. The Peach Festival is returning to its full slate of activities. Group gatherings are starting to be planned again. Wearing a facemask is no longer a requirement. These are simple things to celebrate.