NASHVILLE - It doesn't seem very long ago that many of us out here in Coast Range were lamenting the fact that the population of babies and youngsters was dwindling. Our communities are aging, and we were missing the vitality that young parents and children bring to a community. In the last several years, however, there has seems to be somewhat of a baby boomlet.

The most recent arrival is Savannah Ann Adams, born to Graham and Laurie this past Jan. 29. Savannah weighed in at 7 pounds, 8 ounces and has red hair like her dad did as a baby. Proud grandparents, Tarillis and Tpaul Adams of Summit report that she is adorable, already smiling and seems to recognize them!

Savannah's dad, Graham, spent most of his life out here, but currently resides with the family in Philomath.

Just a month ago, on Dec. 30, Amber and Shane Russell of Nashville gave birth to their second child, a daughter, Aspen McKinley Russell. Aspen comes from four generations of Gassners and Russells, most of whom still reside in our area. She will spend a lot of time attending family get-togethers as she grows up.

Proud father Shane erected a large banner in front of the house announcing Aspen's arrival and will probably leave it up until the wind blows it away.

Two months earlier, on Oct. 20, 6-pound, 10-ounce Kira Ann Chambers was born to Kyle and Hillery. Like her father, her paternal grandparents and her maternal aunts, Kira has flaming red hair.

Kyle was raised out in Nashville where his parents, Annie and Brice, still live. Kyle, Hillery and Kira have recently moved to Scio where they have bought a new home so they can be closer to jobs in Salem.

Rumor has it that quite a few little ones are on their way this spring and summer.

Many of us are hopeful that some of these children will eventually live out in our area, since we are looking forward to having some young bodies to take care of us in our dotage.

Country cafe

Good news for all of us who dislike cooking or just want to take a break occasionally - the Blodgett Country Café will be opening up again for dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. After a too-long hiatus, Debbie Scacco will be serving up evening meals until 8 those three nights.

Friday night specials will be Debbie's famous barbeque pork ribs. Thursday and Saturday specials are Cook's Choice surprise. Whatever it is, it will be mouth-watering.

The café opens every morning at 7 (except Sunday when it opens at 8 a.m.), serving tasty breakfasts and lunchs. Sunday through Wednesday the café closes at 3 p.m.

In the hopefully near future, Debbie is looking forward to extending the hours of the café on Friday and Saturday with possible entertainment.

Nashville resident Kathi Downing can be contacted at ramdown@peak.org or 456-4252.