Valentine Park

Have I mentioned to you all that our neighborhood is named "Valentine Hills?"  Such a darling name and the neighborhood is turning out to be that and more.

The week before we moved in, construction was completed on our new neighborhood park.  How's that for luck?  It's a brand-spanking-new space, just down my street, with a playground, basketball court, pond, picnic shelter and plenty of kids.  Across the street from the park?  A favorite local fishing hole – Lake Valentine.

Last night was the park dedication, being dedicated in the name of Don Messerly, one of my neighbors.  Don has served on the Parks and Trails board for 30 years and has accomplished everything from an integrated trail system to an extensive green/tree act requiring that even new developments in our community maintain their older trees.  Even at his advanced age he has been seen single-handedly clearing parks with his chainsaw after storms.

This was such a class-act event.  Everything from yard games to a speech by the mayor.  Ice cream was served, kids played, I saw literally all of my new neighbors and at the end of all the hoopla took the 5 minute walk home to my own place on Valentine Hill.