Whoever thought life would be shut down for more than a year because of a pandemic?

For the last year, I have longed for ways to escape from the reality of life. COVID-19 was a big part of that, and there was no escaping since everything was closed and I had to work from home.

On June 27, folks said goodbye to a Roanoke Valley legend, a man of the cloth — the Rev. Pius Wekesa.

I have loved to sing since I was a small child — with the radio, a tape, along with an album, on family trips driving my family crazy — any chance I have, I sing.

Here it is, the 21st Father’s Day without my dad, Charles Allen Bedwell.

Sunday I enjoyed some much-needed one-on-one time fishing with my fiance on Roanoke Rapids Lake.

Two slices of soft Nature’s Own White Wheat bread, a banana and Duke’s Real Mayonnaise makes for a perfect sandwich.

On Jan. 7, I celebrated 32 years of being employed with The Daily Herald.

Music never fails to make me happy. The weather has been pretty the last few days — not too hot and not too cold.

I recently got back from visiting Nags Head for just a few days with my fiance.

Pets bring such joy into our lives. My loves — Sampson and Galax — make me smile on a daily basis.

Editor Tia Bedwell can be reached at tiabedwell@rrdailyherald.com or 252-410-7056.

This past weekend I spent my time in Murrells Inlet in South Carolina, enjoying a much-needed short vacation.

Wednesday night, while standing at my sink washing up the dinner dishes, I looked out the window and saw the dark clouds rolling in.

Recently, I had a little scare for the first time in all this madness — possible COVID contact.

Last week I wrote about my back pain, and I’m happy to report I feel much better now thanks to Dr. Katie at Vitality Holistic Wellness in Roanoke Rapids.

I know I have shared these photos before, but I am sharing these old photos of mine again.

I’ve written recently about trying to get healthier and I am continuing on that mission — still drinking my gallon of water a day and walking every afternoon when possible.

Now that pretty days are more often than less, people are enjoying the outside more frequently, including me.

Wednesday morning I had my three-month appointment with my doctor, Sarah Massey.