"A Possum In Every Pot" E.W. Carswell

Foreword
The idea for this collection of information about America's Magnificent Marsupial, the Opossum (hereinafter called Possum), was spawned to meet needs created by several possum festivals or auctions that have sprung up in the Southeastern United States. One of these was in Wausau, Florida, and another was in Arcadia, Louisiana. The Wausau festival began as Funday. It was a day (first Saturday in August each year) in which people came from far and near to join local residents in their fun-making activities. The day long program has been described as one of the region's -- maybe even the nation's -- most authentic folk festivals. It remains one of the most unrehearsed and spontaneous.

I can't believe that Mama (Lelia) has turned 84. She had two birthday parties. The first was held at Georgia Belle where she lives and was a real treat for us all. Hank and Kay came up from Lakeland and we all went to hear Hank play for the residents where mother has her home. He sang right after dinner and it was so good. I forget how wonderful my brother's voice is and so much like my Dad. Kay got a cake and there were presents and everything. What more could you ask for. Harry and I were there too and we went up to Mother's apartment for cake after our concert. Hank brought music sheets so everyone could sing along. My favorite was I'll Fly Away. Mom and Daddy spent the last years of their retirement singing for nursing homes so it brought back many fond memories for us all. Thank you Brother for such a treat for us all.