We had a rather loud boom of thunder a few minutes ago and I think we all were startled. Especially the guys working outside on the porch. Now that it is covered and they tar papered it yesterday, they are doing some work under the cover. So with thunder and the continual noise of the saw, giving me the thrill of feeling like I'm at the dentist, all in all it is a good start to the day. Which by the way began early because one Ms Buddy Lee Beardsly couldn't keep settled from about 4:00 am on. Of course right now she is settled on my lap and making typing an adventure.
I switched plans between Wednesday and Thursday, so yesterday, early on the road to Johnson City. I feel so Andy Griffith Showish when I say Johnson City...guess thinking of Siler City. With the Houston trip postponed and planning on loading up at the Kroger in Houston, going to the Kroger in Johnson City was the second best option. Since the Kroger is located right across the way from ETSU, the earlier to shop the better. It's kind of a mishmash in how the store is laid out but when there are tons of shoppers and half of them college kids, it is bedlam. Fortunately I had picked the right time cause we were all old ladies shopping at the Kroger. With that shopping done it was on to other stores, skipped Academy which is a usual stop but it seems life is turning away from always stopping at an Academy store. I went to Kohl's, which is not a usual stop, looking for something in particular. I didn't browse the whole store but when I was just about to give up, I found what I came looking for. When checking out the clerk asked if I would like to open an account. No, I go into Kohl's about every two years or maybe it is every year and a half. There was a Kirkland's next door, so a brief walk thru seemed like a good idea. It has been years since I've been in a Kirkland's, saw some cute things but nothing that needed to come home with me. Next stop, Barnes and Noble. Didn't see anything there either which is hugely disappointing cause coupons and a gift card were in my purse. By this time, it was lunch time and so over to Ole Guacamole. After having a delicious lunch it was off to Mountain View Amish store and I took the back way. Eastern TN is adorned by red bud, dogwood and other blooming trees. I should have stopped and taken pics of the really big trees on University Park Blvd. I drove that route twice and enjoyed the visuals on both trips. The wind picked up along the route and by the time I was back on the road to return home, it was rather gusty.
Upon returning, the crew was finished for the day on the back porch and Nathan and crew hadn't been here yet. That worked out beautifully for the parking situation which is so limited and by the grace of our neighbors, let the guys use their gravel road. Nathan and Tristan arrived a little before 6:00 and worked till the sun went down. They got everything planted and we decided to wait on planting the seeds till after this weekend. Should have a frost on Saturday or Sunday morning. I need to get a couple more dogwoods and a red bud tree...and hydrangeas.
Yesterday, the pics that Bev had drawn of Cali, Riley and Strawyer arrived. I couldn't wait to open the envelope and did so in the post office parking lot. I teared up...didn't totally cry but somewhere between the two, I did. The picture of Riley...I think it brought closure to her saga. I haven't seen her in weeks but it has felt like she is gone from this world. Then after watching Straw and Punky...it dawned on me that they never go up to the corner of the fence by the gravel road anymore...that's where Riley liked to hang out...just like her mom. Straw and Punky made that area their playground. Even with the rain we've had, just their playing and roaming about kept the greenery at bay. Now, it is so overgrown. Something must have gotten Riley up there, even Mr Meany doesn't go that way anymore...when he goes up that way, he goes way wide. I carry such a sadness for that little Riley, We were oh so close to giving her a much better life and I failed her. Did she feel totally alone and rejected? Had she turned to me in desperation, against all her natural instincts? She had her kittens, but they didn't live long just by amateur observation.
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Well, the stomach bug got me Saturday morning and knocked me out of commission. Sad to miss Easter service but good to rest and get rejuvenated once again. Buddy even cooperated.
Monday, April 22, 2019
Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Oh Produce Stand Season, How I Love You!
It's beginning to look a lot like produce stand season, everywhere you go....It's the most wonderful time of the year...with the strawberry picking and FB greetings all sold for today y'all....Over the river and through the woods to produce stands we go... From this medley of songs you must know by now that this one is jazzed about the beginning of fruit and veggie time. Yesterday along the roads produce stands were being cleaned and readied for customers, in the most wonderful time of the year. Add to this the red buds, dogwoods, apple trees and all other blooming trees...azaleas, snowball bushes and tulips and lest we forget all the pollen, it is a coming out party of nature after the long sleep. So timely with a late Easter that even in nature, resurrection comes and brings joy. The colors of the sky and earth are vibrant and verdant. I love fall, my favorite season but living where we enjoy four seasons...I don't know spring is gaining on fall.
So, I made the twice postponed journey to Hendersonville for blood work before the yearly check up in May. Went early and bonus, spring break here. so less traffic to deal with. With the lab work done rather quickly, I was able to go have breakfast at Fireside Restaurant and Pancake Inn. It did not disappoint, great food and coffee. Then it seemed like the thing to do next was to make my first trip and hopefully not my last, to Strawberry Hill in South Carolina for fresh from the field strawberries. Such a beautiful drive after getting off I 26. Several produce stands along the way, not open yet, but people were there cleaning and making the stand ready for this produce stand season. Since I was on kind of a schedule, I only bought strawberries and didn't go to the gift shop or diner across the way. Back on the road to return to Hendersonville and stop in at Southern Chicks. They open at 11:00, I pulled in at 11:03 and when I left at 11:20, the parking lot was packed...just like the store. Now you may think Nancy, that lends itself to deduction but I'm talking about how much they have packed into that small space. You have to do a walk through and then shop cause there is so much to see. I have a natural affinity for this shop because they sell some of the best sheep related merchandise and yesterday, it was theme shopping...everything bought had to do with sheep.
It is bluebonnet time in Texas and it sounds like this is a banner year for the bluebonnets as well as all the other wild flowers that come in a too short season of time. So all highways that go toward Brenham and Navasota are filled with cars full of people trying to catch a glimpse of this seasonal beauty and take pictures in the midst of the fields of flowers. Please keep an eye out for snakes...anyway, a friend wrote of their frustrating trip with their three kids and mother in law to go see the flowers Sunday after church. My friend wrote about the frustration of the trip trying to get everyone fed so they could go see the flowers on Facebook concluding that small town charm was a myth because the local restaurants were closing thirty minutes before their posted closing time. I kind of chuckled because the charm of small town eateries is just what he complained about... I have noticed at some restaurants near Asheville some favor local over tourist. Once Dena and I were at a well known place and the waitress took us for tourists and treated us thusly...well, in our conversation while ordering our meal, I said a couple of things that would indicate I live here and the service so improved like night and day.
With such a beautiful day I tried to spend as much time outdoors as possible...we may have a dusting of snow on Saturday so everything I did today can be moved into the porch. Another day of good weather though, so that is wonderfl.
So, I made the twice postponed journey to Hendersonville for blood work before the yearly check up in May. Went early and bonus, spring break here. so less traffic to deal with. With the lab work done rather quickly, I was able to go have breakfast at Fireside Restaurant and Pancake Inn. It did not disappoint, great food and coffee. Then it seemed like the thing to do next was to make my first trip and hopefully not my last, to Strawberry Hill in South Carolina for fresh from the field strawberries. Such a beautiful drive after getting off I 26. Several produce stands along the way, not open yet, but people were there cleaning and making the stand ready for this produce stand season. Since I was on kind of a schedule, I only bought strawberries and didn't go to the gift shop or diner across the way. Back on the road to return to Hendersonville and stop in at Southern Chicks. They open at 11:00, I pulled in at 11:03 and when I left at 11:20, the parking lot was packed...just like the store. Now you may think Nancy, that lends itself to deduction but I'm talking about how much they have packed into that small space. You have to do a walk through and then shop cause there is so much to see. I have a natural affinity for this shop because they sell some of the best sheep related merchandise and yesterday, it was theme shopping...everything bought had to do with sheep.
It is bluebonnet time in Texas and it sounds like this is a banner year for the bluebonnets as well as all the other wild flowers that come in a too short season of time. So all highways that go toward Brenham and Navasota are filled with cars full of people trying to catch a glimpse of this seasonal beauty and take pictures in the midst of the fields of flowers. Please keep an eye out for snakes...anyway, a friend wrote of their frustrating trip with their three kids and mother in law to go see the flowers Sunday after church. My friend wrote about the frustration of the trip trying to get everyone fed so they could go see the flowers on Facebook concluding that small town charm was a myth because the local restaurants were closing thirty minutes before their posted closing time. I kind of chuckled because the charm of small town eateries is just what he complained about... I have noticed at some restaurants near Asheville some favor local over tourist. Once Dena and I were at a well known place and the waitress took us for tourists and treated us thusly...well, in our conversation while ordering our meal, I said a couple of things that would indicate I live here and the service so improved like night and day.
With such a beautiful day I tried to spend as much time outdoors as possible...we may have a dusting of snow on Saturday so everything I did today can be moved into the porch. Another day of good weather though, so that is wonderfl.
Sunday, April 14, 2019
For Now....
This morning I awoke with a sore throat and lots of coughing, with a small nuisance headache behind my eyes. The sore throat always gains attention because it has become a sign unto me that the good ol immune system has kicked into overdrive and needs additional assistance and that has come to be rest. Rest has been a difficult thing to acquire lately with Buddy. So, kind of like with a child you takes the rest when they choose to rest. For now...with Buddy on my lap, choosing rest was the best option.
With the homegoing of a beloved friend and attention needed for the back porch construction, being able to write about the luncheon at church on Thursday kind of took a backseat. But it was well done and so enjoyed by those of us in attendance. We enjoyed the presence of many who are unable to come to church on Sundays anymore. Several of the ladies are in their early hundreds. Wow! The meal is prepared by loving volunteers who have the regarded gift of food prep, no make that delicious food prep. So we had meat loaf, mashed potatoes, creamed corn (there ain't nothing like NC cream corn,) green beans, slaw, rolls and banana pudding. If you didn't know Jesus before this meal, you would know Him afterwards. Brenda's mom Robin, ditched sitting with us to go sit with her friends. Yes, somehow and somewhere we will always carry that part of being a teenager with us...don't blame her, that's what I would want to do. So Brenda, Ann, Jennell and then later joined by Dot and Jan had a marvelous time. The stories of growing up in this area mesmerized me. Stories of first jobs and school and the like. I left the luncheon full, not only of good food but thankful for friends and for a good church home. Several told me before we bought the house up here that it would be a rough road to make friends and that is true advice but God in His grace and mercy provided and we haven't become statistics.
It wasn't in the plans yesterday but I ended up in Maggie Valley. The original trip was to an antique store in Waynesville passed by so many times but never a stop. A Facebook market item had drawn my attention to the store. So after a much later start than anticipated, the Buddy no rest adventure, I went to Waynesville. I really wanted to take the car but I knew it would be better to take the truck...just in case I came across what I was looking for. This nixed the "find" but this is what put the malocchio on the trip, also had checks and antique hunting cash. I liked the antique store but it really didn't have the stuff I was looking for. The owner directed me to a place in Maggie Valley so I left but stopped at the hit and miss antique store on the Smoky Mountain Expressway. It was a miss visit so with the threat of rain hanging over the mountains, it was off to Maggie Valley. It has been sometime since I have been in MV and it was enchanting drive through yesterday. Years ago, we briefly toyed with the idea of buying a condo off a golf course there just for summer visits but Roy asked me if I really wanted a condo or just continue with the Biltmore Experience? Uh, at that time Biltmore was the answer and Roy in his accountant way said, well, it is cheaper to do that...which seems counter-intuitive. Maggie Valley's main drag is quaint motels, local comfort food eats, gift shops and antique stores. Many years ago I remember driving through such an area but couldn't quite place where we had been...it all came back to me yesterday. Of course these quaint motels cater to the bike crowd which means there is such a mix of people and that makes people watching more diverse and interesting. I stopped at the recommended antique store and loved it. Full of rustic, metal, tools, kitchen stuff....it is a definite return. Found a green ladderish kind of thing that will go perfectly on the back porch. When I got home I went through the scrap wood heap and found three boards that will work as shelves. Now to think of what color to paint them. Not green to be matchy matchy or white to be cutesy cutesy. After stopping there that is when I decided to drive through the rest of the way. Found Joey's Pancakes so now we can make a visit. Started back toward home. The old lady that used to sit out on her front porch a lot, almost every time while driving by hasn't been out there for about two years now. Well, maybe she is sick and when she gets better....but yesterday the truth of her absence was verified by the look of the house. The porch furniture has been removed and the window coverings gone revealing an empty house...for now.
I stopped at Dickey's to pick up some brisket for a late lunch and as always...delicious. After eating here it was onto the grocery store for a couple of needed items. Publix had New England Coffee brand on sale, or rather BOGO. Stocked up on butter pecan and some breakfast blend.
Cautiously last night...while watching Singing in the Rain, my eyes were on Buddy. She was starting to do that wander and meow thing. She settled a bit, hung around a bit and then when I went to the bedroom, she followed, jumped on the bed and got into her little bed. Just that in itself cut out several hours of fitful sleep.
So the wind is beginning to blow, huge gusts make trees creak and groan. I'm looking at all the lumber in the back yard, unsecured and think I'll go out and make a few adjustments. The more sun we have in the space of clearing between systems will either make this something to be very concerned over or it could be some rain that isn't too much of a problem.
So now, while finishing up this post, I have stopped coughing for a bit, Buddy is on my lap again and the wind has stopped blowing, for now.
With the homegoing of a beloved friend and attention needed for the back porch construction, being able to write about the luncheon at church on Thursday kind of took a backseat. But it was well done and so enjoyed by those of us in attendance. We enjoyed the presence of many who are unable to come to church on Sundays anymore. Several of the ladies are in their early hundreds. Wow! The meal is prepared by loving volunteers who have the regarded gift of food prep, no make that delicious food prep. So we had meat loaf, mashed potatoes, creamed corn (there ain't nothing like NC cream corn,) green beans, slaw, rolls and banana pudding. If you didn't know Jesus before this meal, you would know Him afterwards. Brenda's mom Robin, ditched sitting with us to go sit with her friends. Yes, somehow and somewhere we will always carry that part of being a teenager with us...don't blame her, that's what I would want to do. So Brenda, Ann, Jennell and then later joined by Dot and Jan had a marvelous time. The stories of growing up in this area mesmerized me. Stories of first jobs and school and the like. I left the luncheon full, not only of good food but thankful for friends and for a good church home. Several told me before we bought the house up here that it would be a rough road to make friends and that is true advice but God in His grace and mercy provided and we haven't become statistics.
It wasn't in the plans yesterday but I ended up in Maggie Valley. The original trip was to an antique store in Waynesville passed by so many times but never a stop. A Facebook market item had drawn my attention to the store. So after a much later start than anticipated, the Buddy no rest adventure, I went to Waynesville. I really wanted to take the car but I knew it would be better to take the truck...just in case I came across what I was looking for. This nixed the "find" but this is what put the malocchio on the trip, also had checks and antique hunting cash. I liked the antique store but it really didn't have the stuff I was looking for. The owner directed me to a place in Maggie Valley so I left but stopped at the hit and miss antique store on the Smoky Mountain Expressway. It was a miss visit so with the threat of rain hanging over the mountains, it was off to Maggie Valley. It has been sometime since I have been in MV and it was enchanting drive through yesterday. Years ago, we briefly toyed with the idea of buying a condo off a golf course there just for summer visits but Roy asked me if I really wanted a condo or just continue with the Biltmore Experience? Uh, at that time Biltmore was the answer and Roy in his accountant way said, well, it is cheaper to do that...which seems counter-intuitive. Maggie Valley's main drag is quaint motels, local comfort food eats, gift shops and antique stores. Many years ago I remember driving through such an area but couldn't quite place where we had been...it all came back to me yesterday. Of course these quaint motels cater to the bike crowd which means there is such a mix of people and that makes people watching more diverse and interesting. I stopped at the recommended antique store and loved it. Full of rustic, metal, tools, kitchen stuff....it is a definite return. Found a green ladderish kind of thing that will go perfectly on the back porch. When I got home I went through the scrap wood heap and found three boards that will work as shelves. Now to think of what color to paint them. Not green to be matchy matchy or white to be cutesy cutesy. After stopping there that is when I decided to drive through the rest of the way. Found Joey's Pancakes so now we can make a visit. Started back toward home. The old lady that used to sit out on her front porch a lot, almost every time while driving by hasn't been out there for about two years now. Well, maybe she is sick and when she gets better....but yesterday the truth of her absence was verified by the look of the house. The porch furniture has been removed and the window coverings gone revealing an empty house...for now.
I stopped at Dickey's to pick up some brisket for a late lunch and as always...delicious. After eating here it was onto the grocery store for a couple of needed items. Publix had New England Coffee brand on sale, or rather BOGO. Stocked up on butter pecan and some breakfast blend.
Cautiously last night...while watching Singing in the Rain, my eyes were on Buddy. She was starting to do that wander and meow thing. She settled a bit, hung around a bit and then when I went to the bedroom, she followed, jumped on the bed and got into her little bed. Just that in itself cut out several hours of fitful sleep.
So the wind is beginning to blow, huge gusts make trees creak and groan. I'm looking at all the lumber in the back yard, unsecured and think I'll go out and make a few adjustments. The more sun we have in the space of clearing between systems will either make this something to be very concerned over or it could be some rain that isn't too much of a problem.
So now, while finishing up this post, I have stopped coughing for a bit, Buddy is on my lap again and the wind has stopped blowing, for now.
Friday, April 12, 2019
A Little Friday Catch Up
It was not the restful night that was fully intended with an early bed time and a Buddy already on the bed asleep. She had been a little off all day but it seemed that came from her chill pill for the visit to the vet on Tuesday. It has been a little while since she has received it in her food and treats. Buddy seemed to be doing better without the added drugs and it seemed the vet has more of a palliative care in mind for Buddy. But Buddy has life in her, she plays, is interested in the ferals outside and jumps onto and off the bed many a day. So last night, I thought maybe would be Buddy's last night with me. She wouldn't lie down, when I looked for her she found herself in some of the most unusual places and she just gazed at the dresser or a chair. We went downstairs for some treats and because it w as nearly 1:00 am I didn't stay with her, instead I ascended the stairs, went to bed and finally fell asleep after praying for her. You can imagine the surprise in those first few moments of deep sleep of something jumping onto my face...I gave out a mini scream that startled Buddy. She never gets on the bed via my nightstand but last night was a first. She wanted to sleep on top of me, I am not a back sleeper, so we had many attempts but she finally settled into her natural position on my arm. When her head gently touched my hand, I felt sure we had a settling down. Of course then my weary brain goes into gear checking every few minutes to see if Buddy is still breathing. Finally, we both drifted off into sleep and this morning I was awakened by the whiny meow of Buddy. She seems to be back in sync. Opting for front porch time over treats which is not unusual on these beautiful spring mornings.
The guys finished the flooring part of the new back porch and while I am immensely happy it seemed that all the outside cats were happy as well. It was much easier playing laser light tag with Punky last night. Of course Mr Meany took ownership, well, that is until Mama Cat came along and pulled out a can of whip a$$. It is always a pleasure to see Mama Cat pull rank and put him in his place. Without seeing Camo for over a week she might be the only original member of the Feral Fam to be still living, although Camo could still be lurking about and just not at times I'm watching. I really like Strawyer and he seems to be less afraid around me. He comes and goes out of the garage when I'm out there working.
Yesterday was National Siblings Day on Facebook. Loved seeing all the siblings of friends in old or recent pics. After having a wonderful visit with my brother a week or so ago, the gratitude I feel is overwhelming. Like most brothers and sisters, we fought in our growing up years with maybe a few hours of pleasant play time thrown in not knowing that those hours were the seeds of hope we would grow up and get along. Over the past couple of years our conversations have progressed as we still process "what the heck was that" childhood. With the help of others, both professional and non-professional, our process talk diminishes with each conversation as we continue to grow into the people we were meant to be. One thing for sure, we both know the red flags of triggers and we seek to as in the words of Barney Fife, "Nip them in the bud." Once you have experienced first hand from one of the meanest people ever to populate the earth, you have attuned eyes for when someone exerts or tries to exert control. Those subtle and not so subtle attempts to manipulate small incidents of today for a greater surmount of tomorrow are top priority to untangle yourself from. We have both made that mistake but as we mature and grow old, the incidents of being taken unaware prove less and less and our speed to run from such encounters has increased. We both have different triggers but one of mine is when someone takes a bit of truth and spins it into one fantastic and devious fabrication. No one seems to question the statements and stories...mainly due to the aftermath that happens when one confronts.
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Friday morning and the crew is hard at work. The past few weeks the work has started around 8:00 am but this morning it was closer to 7:30. I was so surprised to see the deliveries that had been made while being at church yesterday. I had stopped by home to put up the meatloaf that came home with me to see the delivery and then I headed out in the truck to Lowe's for a few needed items. I had just pulled in to Reems Creek when Roy called and I needed to get home to give Bruce a check. Pulling in I maneuvered past trucks and supplies. A whole crew was here and working on the porch. Not a bad welcome at all.
So, I kind of broke with my guidelines on porch decor yesterday. I do not want to go the predictable route of wicker, wicker and wicker for the back porch and especially if it is white but I saw a couple of smallish chairs with minimal wicker and sunbrella cushions and ordered them. Patio furniture can be so wide and clumsy and having gone that route with the courtyard at our Katy home, totally have been looking for something different. I am still on the search for other items but those searches are at antique or consignment stores.
This has totally been an ADD kind of day but at least stuff is getting done...almost have the great clothes exchange done and felt kind of safe putting up the comforter until next winter. I feel a little nap coming on and it might be difficult to sleep but that's ok cause there is progress being made.
The guys finished the flooring part of the new back porch and while I am immensely happy it seemed that all the outside cats were happy as well. It was much easier playing laser light tag with Punky last night. Of course Mr Meany took ownership, well, that is until Mama Cat came along and pulled out a can of whip a$$. It is always a pleasure to see Mama Cat pull rank and put him in his place. Without seeing Camo for over a week she might be the only original member of the Feral Fam to be still living, although Camo could still be lurking about and just not at times I'm watching. I really like Strawyer and he seems to be less afraid around me. He comes and goes out of the garage when I'm out there working.
Yesterday was National Siblings Day on Facebook. Loved seeing all the siblings of friends in old or recent pics. After having a wonderful visit with my brother a week or so ago, the gratitude I feel is overwhelming. Like most brothers and sisters, we fought in our growing up years with maybe a few hours of pleasant play time thrown in not knowing that those hours were the seeds of hope we would grow up and get along. Over the past couple of years our conversations have progressed as we still process "what the heck was that" childhood. With the help of others, both professional and non-professional, our process talk diminishes with each conversation as we continue to grow into the people we were meant to be. One thing for sure, we both know the red flags of triggers and we seek to as in the words of Barney Fife, "Nip them in the bud." Once you have experienced first hand from one of the meanest people ever to populate the earth, you have attuned eyes for when someone exerts or tries to exert control. Those subtle and not so subtle attempts to manipulate small incidents of today for a greater surmount of tomorrow are top priority to untangle yourself from. We have both made that mistake but as we mature and grow old, the incidents of being taken unaware prove less and less and our speed to run from such encounters has increased. We both have different triggers but one of mine is when someone takes a bit of truth and spins it into one fantastic and devious fabrication. No one seems to question the statements and stories...mainly due to the aftermath that happens when one confronts.
*************************
Friday morning and the crew is hard at work. The past few weeks the work has started around 8:00 am but this morning it was closer to 7:30. I was so surprised to see the deliveries that had been made while being at church yesterday. I had stopped by home to put up the meatloaf that came home with me to see the delivery and then I headed out in the truck to Lowe's for a few needed items. I had just pulled in to Reems Creek when Roy called and I needed to get home to give Bruce a check. Pulling in I maneuvered past trucks and supplies. A whole crew was here and working on the porch. Not a bad welcome at all.
So, I kind of broke with my guidelines on porch decor yesterday. I do not want to go the predictable route of wicker, wicker and wicker for the back porch and especially if it is white but I saw a couple of smallish chairs with minimal wicker and sunbrella cushions and ordered them. Patio furniture can be so wide and clumsy and having gone that route with the courtyard at our Katy home, totally have been looking for something different. I am still on the search for other items but those searches are at antique or consignment stores.
This has totally been an ADD kind of day but at least stuff is getting done...almost have the great clothes exchange done and felt kind of safe putting up the comforter until next winter. I feel a little nap coming on and it might be difficult to sleep but that's ok cause there is progress being made.
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
When A Friend Relocates
You can learn a lot from Facebook, a lot of it is useless info and some of it, well, the life hacks are sometimes worth the time to read an article making cleaning, cooking and the like easier. It has been fun watching friends on trips or with their families or seeing something funny on a video that makes you laugh over and over again. I'm thinking of Gina VH and the water challenge...never gets old. Facebook reacquaints friends from years back, high school and college. Seems strange that the last time you saw them...was back in the day and they have and I have lived all kinds of life in between. It's funny that when I see happy times or good times of others on Facebook my thoughts are not of jealousy or why do they get to do that or go there? No, not at all, I am happy and thrilled especially when it comes to travel because I have become my mother..."Can we see it from the car?"
Some days there one can learn unexpected news....you know, I knew my friend was moving...and although we hadn't talked about it personally, I knew the day was coming...but I wasn't ready for her move to take place, so soon...too quickly. Really, there are those of us, family and friends, she is leaving behind...We were going to have more conversations and visits...lots more hugs...more of her delicious desserts,but yesterday, she decided to move her closing date sooner...or maybe that should be God knew the date would be sooner than later. Yesterday, our world lost one of the brightest lights ever created, her family and her friends are saddened at the homegoing of Ria, there in the south of France, with her family beside her from breast cancer. An aggressive form of breast cancer. Ria kept us informed of her treatments and surgeries but in the midst of the news, she always had a good word to share that God is faithful, He is good and she experienced His peace. In the midst of her trials she encouraged us. From her October 2017 update....
The first time I heard of Ria and her family was in the office that a family from France had visited and had been back. In fact one Sunday they sat in front of Roy and me in the balcony. Once I had retired, I was able to get back to choir and that is when Ria and I met and became friends. She was such a joy to know, so easy to love and she gave just about the best hugs around...We were all sad when they were moving back to the Continent but we had all rejoiced that Claude's work time had been extended past the two years here in the states.
The last meaningful conversation we had was by Messenger. While recovering from bilateral knee replacements, my hours were jumbled and tumbled, so 3:00 and 4:00 in the morning in Houston was early afternoon there. Ria wondered what in the world was I doing up....and then we typed and shared from our hearts things going on in life...
Others from Houston were much closer to the family than we were but make no mistake, we treasured their friendship, our friendship. So now, we, her friends, do what friends do when our friends change residences from earth to heaven...we pray and love the family left to miss their dear one. We cherish the memories and thank God for letting us meet this side of heaven.
Some days there one can learn unexpected news....you know, I knew my friend was moving...and although we hadn't talked about it personally, I knew the day was coming...but I wasn't ready for her move to take place, so soon...too quickly. Really, there are those of us, family and friends, she is leaving behind...We were going to have more conversations and visits...lots more hugs...more of her delicious desserts,but yesterday, she decided to move her closing date sooner...or maybe that should be God knew the date would be sooner than later. Yesterday, our world lost one of the brightest lights ever created, her family and her friends are saddened at the homegoing of Ria, there in the south of France, with her family beside her from breast cancer. An aggressive form of breast cancer. Ria kept us informed of her treatments and surgeries but in the midst of the news, she always had a good word to share that God is faithful, He is good and she experienced His peace. In the midst of her trials she encouraged us. From her October 2017 update....
Like this verse bellow my heart is filled with His Peace and
His Joy
I am thankful for His presence in my heart ! His
faithfulness and His Grace ! Thank you Lord !
Thankful for your Support and prayers , your emails, phone
calls ...
Thankful for the medical care that we can have
Thankful for Life, my beloved, my children to be always
there and their encouragements !
Thank you to pray for
- next part ; strength , radiotherapy, wisdom for
doctors
- my back very weak since surgery ( this part is declining
too 🙄)
Let the peace of Christ rule
in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace . And be
thankful.
Colossians 3:15
Big hugs
Ria
"Count your blessings"
The first time I heard of Ria and her family was in the office that a family from France had visited and had been back. In fact one Sunday they sat in front of Roy and me in the balcony. Once I had retired, I was able to get back to choir and that is when Ria and I met and became friends. She was such a joy to know, so easy to love and she gave just about the best hugs around...We were all sad when they were moving back to the Continent but we had all rejoiced that Claude's work time had been extended past the two years here in the states.
The last meaningful conversation we had was by Messenger. While recovering from bilateral knee replacements, my hours were jumbled and tumbled, so 3:00 and 4:00 in the morning in Houston was early afternoon there. Ria wondered what in the world was I doing up....and then we typed and shared from our hearts things going on in life...
Others from Houston were much closer to the family than we were but make no mistake, we treasured their friendship, our friendship. So now, we, her friends, do what friends do when our friends change residences from earth to heaven...we pray and love the family left to miss their dear one. We cherish the memories and thank God for letting us meet this side of heaven.
Saturday, April 6, 2019
Come On Spring!
A misty rain morning in the mountains. Heard heavier rain drops earlier but seems like the rain has decided to settle into a light cadence. Mike the Mower Man mowed and weedeated yesterday. Several weeks ago he fertilized the lawn and the bright spring green looks so good whether it be rainy or sunny.
Yesterday afternoon I canceled reservations, told friends of our change of plans and geared my mindset to remaining in the mountains this April. Truthfully, it is not a hard change about the mountains because it is a blessing to be here and experience this place daily. Wednesday morning put me on the road earlier than usual and the scenes of deer crossing the road, as well as turkeys, was a bountiful joy while heading into the big city.
Back to the story of the busy weeks, my brother joined Lisa and I last Thursday. We had the morning to ready his room and just sit around and visit. Once he arrived we all set off for the Biltmore to have supper. Well, a lot of people had that idea because the veranda was full, so we ate in the library. As the sun set and knowing how it hits that side of the Inn, it was a happy thought not to be baking in the sun. After a delicious dinner and a lot of laughs we realized we had lingered too long over our meal and missed shopping hours. We did drive around the estate and the lambs did not disappoint. Friday, we left early to get to Lincolnton to stop in at Marilyn's Sweet Addictions and to have lunch on the patio of Good Wood Pizza. What a treat to introduce Doug to some very delicious pizza. We dropped Lisa at the airport and returned to shop in downtown Lincolnton and then headed on home. We had supper at Turkey Creek. We have eaten on Friday nights many a time but I have never ordered the fried fish and that all changed last Friday. It was delicious. In the past few weeks I have eaten more fried food or coconut cake but now back to the good ol' home routine of tuna salad or cranberry goat cheese or salads. Saturday Doug and I headed over to Haywood County for the Cottontail Market at the fairgrounds. It was a busy place but due to Doug's great sense of space, we found a great spot to park. Then we got our wristbands and began to peruse everything offered. At first it seemed as if it would be just another craft show but we both found some fabulous finds. The vendors were some of the nicest around and we found such creative people doing something with everyday junk, turning out art that deserves special recognition. We went to the Haywood Smokehouse for lunch...ah Texas brisket...and then headed over to Otto to look at Bryant's Antiques. Lots of fun stuff to look at and it is also somewhat heart warming that we saw items reminiscent from our childhood and we talked over our memories...the good ones. We came back home after a very good day of browsing and making a few purchases. Sunday we just went to the 11:00 service as my cold or upper respiratory thingy had me in the grip. We had a beautiful service with the pastor candidate preaching. Always like a sermon or teaching on Psalm One. We ate lunch and then Doug was off to Brenda's for his biscuit making lesson. He had a blast and his biscuits were quite good. I ran a few errands and then rested. Monday we eased into the day and had an early lunch at Blue Rooster. Doug headed back home and I did some shopping at Belk and Mast General. Wanted to get Roy some new shirts and as luck would have it, found a couple for me.
I have a little sign in the living room that says it is the little things we enjoy that makes life so grand. I love the time with friends there in the living room, visiting, talking, having our coffee. Doug and I have solved and counseled one another, Dena and Lisa...Brenda, Inez...
*************************
Well, I opted for change of plans this morning and decided to stick around the house. This respiratory thing has zapped my energy, so another night of going to bed early and then sleeping until after 8:00 am. I haven't felt bad at all but I am tired of coughing and blowing my nose. On a grocery trip to Ingles yesterday I loaded up on all things elderberry and so far at the best prices since I began the elderberry journey several years ago.
Also, while at the Ingles, I picked up cat food....not just any cat food but the kind Buddy ate in the long ago. She stopped eating her prescription food around March 16th, but would eat treats and sometimes some of the dry food that the ferals eat. I put a little food in her dish and she scarfed it down, so added some more and she ate that. This morning most of the food in her dish was gone so while eating the healthy prescription food is better for her, she's nearly 15 and junk cat food is what she'll be served, until she doesn't eat that anymore. She never seemed sickly but active, playing, whining to go out on the front porch....
Nathan and Lauren stopped by to check on the flowers in the back...tulips and daffodils are still going strong. He and his crew will be by next week to do mulch and the next round of planting.
The work guys dropped off the lumber that was on back order yesterday, so the work will continue. It is looking good and that porch will be so enjoyed this summer and fall. I also continue the search for furniture to go out there.
The forecast is for the temps to get into the 70's today. Come on spring, you can do it and stay around for a bit.
Yesterday afternoon I canceled reservations, told friends of our change of plans and geared my mindset to remaining in the mountains this April. Truthfully, it is not a hard change about the mountains because it is a blessing to be here and experience this place daily. Wednesday morning put me on the road earlier than usual and the scenes of deer crossing the road, as well as turkeys, was a bountiful joy while heading into the big city.
Back to the story of the busy weeks, my brother joined Lisa and I last Thursday. We had the morning to ready his room and just sit around and visit. Once he arrived we all set off for the Biltmore to have supper. Well, a lot of people had that idea because the veranda was full, so we ate in the library. As the sun set and knowing how it hits that side of the Inn, it was a happy thought not to be baking in the sun. After a delicious dinner and a lot of laughs we realized we had lingered too long over our meal and missed shopping hours. We did drive around the estate and the lambs did not disappoint. Friday, we left early to get to Lincolnton to stop in at Marilyn's Sweet Addictions and to have lunch on the patio of Good Wood Pizza. What a treat to introduce Doug to some very delicious pizza. We dropped Lisa at the airport and returned to shop in downtown Lincolnton and then headed on home. We had supper at Turkey Creek. We have eaten on Friday nights many a time but I have never ordered the fried fish and that all changed last Friday. It was delicious. In the past few weeks I have eaten more fried food or coconut cake but now back to the good ol' home routine of tuna salad or cranberry goat cheese or salads. Saturday Doug and I headed over to Haywood County for the Cottontail Market at the fairgrounds. It was a busy place but due to Doug's great sense of space, we found a great spot to park. Then we got our wristbands and began to peruse everything offered. At first it seemed as if it would be just another craft show but we both found some fabulous finds. The vendors were some of the nicest around and we found such creative people doing something with everyday junk, turning out art that deserves special recognition. We went to the Haywood Smokehouse for lunch...ah Texas brisket...and then headed over to Otto to look at Bryant's Antiques. Lots of fun stuff to look at and it is also somewhat heart warming that we saw items reminiscent from our childhood and we talked over our memories...the good ones. We came back home after a very good day of browsing and making a few purchases. Sunday we just went to the 11:00 service as my cold or upper respiratory thingy had me in the grip. We had a beautiful service with the pastor candidate preaching. Always like a sermon or teaching on Psalm One. We ate lunch and then Doug was off to Brenda's for his biscuit making lesson. He had a blast and his biscuits were quite good. I ran a few errands and then rested. Monday we eased into the day and had an early lunch at Blue Rooster. Doug headed back home and I did some shopping at Belk and Mast General. Wanted to get Roy some new shirts and as luck would have it, found a couple for me.
I have a little sign in the living room that says it is the little things we enjoy that makes life so grand. I love the time with friends there in the living room, visiting, talking, having our coffee. Doug and I have solved and counseled one another, Dena and Lisa...Brenda, Inez...
*************************
Well, I opted for change of plans this morning and decided to stick around the house. This respiratory thing has zapped my energy, so another night of going to bed early and then sleeping until after 8:00 am. I haven't felt bad at all but I am tired of coughing and blowing my nose. On a grocery trip to Ingles yesterday I loaded up on all things elderberry and so far at the best prices since I began the elderberry journey several years ago.
Also, while at the Ingles, I picked up cat food....not just any cat food but the kind Buddy ate in the long ago. She stopped eating her prescription food around March 16th, but would eat treats and sometimes some of the dry food that the ferals eat. I put a little food in her dish and she scarfed it down, so added some more and she ate that. This morning most of the food in her dish was gone so while eating the healthy prescription food is better for her, she's nearly 15 and junk cat food is what she'll be served, until she doesn't eat that anymore. She never seemed sickly but active, playing, whining to go out on the front porch....
Nathan and Lauren stopped by to check on the flowers in the back...tulips and daffodils are still going strong. He and his crew will be by next week to do mulch and the next round of planting.
The work guys dropped off the lumber that was on back order yesterday, so the work will continue. It is looking good and that porch will be so enjoyed this summer and fall. I also continue the search for furniture to go out there.
The forecast is for the temps to get into the 70's today. Come on spring, you can do it and stay around for a bit.
Thursday, April 4, 2019
24/7 It Is All About The Cats
Strawyer and Punky have found the front porch and the desirability it holds for the morning sunshine and comfort from the rocking chair cushions. They are keeping Buddy occupied and they are all content to just look at one another from a distance through the screen...not tear up the screen like Mr. Meany. Since he wasn't around, I did sneak a meal to them. Strawyer is coming into the garage more and more so we shall see if this leads to anything.
There was this glimmer of hope that Mr Meany had moved on because his mean presence didn't show up...well, that is until late yesterday afternoon. Punky and Strawyer are still around now and then and the past two days Mama Cat has shown up for a little snack. I am not feeding the cats as much and when the temps were in the 20's this week, I lifted the do not feed often tag because they need the food to help keep warm. Sadly, I have not seen Riley in over a week. I am trying not to go straight to the thought that she might not be in this world but it wouldn't surprise me. She had been acting strangely, not herself. This made me think that maybe she had lost her kittens especially when Mr Meany showed "dating" interest in her again and she reciprocated interest. I think the last time I saw her she was heading down the gravel road. With the construction as an added anxiety, this might have affected her. I hope she still has her kittens and moved someplace where she felt safe but my gut tells me otherwise. I feel horrible not getting her back to the vet. She trusted the human against her feral way and I let her down. I was looking through her pictures today and got teary eyed...that little kitten with the big ears and paws. the pink and black nose and that puny little meow. Those two months that she came into the garage were such pleasant ones while we played and she let me pet her. Life as a feral is so difficult yet Mama Cat and Camo live on....beating the odds.
This morning was a bit unnerving as Buddy got her leg caught in her collar. She was under the bed but I had changed her passage ways, not on purpose, but because of spring cleaning. I could hear her making a strange noise and she came out from under the bed and went to the hallway. She was lying on her side moving in a strange fashion. I picked her up and put her on the bed and only realized then she had her collar around her neck with one leg in it. As I tried to unclasp the collar she was fighting me tooth and nail and my hands bear the brunt of her defensive moves. I moved us away from the new white bedspread and into the front room. Got a pair of scissors and set her free. Once we were in the chair she quit fighting me and realized I was trying to help. She jumped off my lap but returned in a minute, seeming contrite and wanting a little head rubbing...what better way to celebrate release but with treats, so downstairs we went. Scared me that little episode. Wore her out but it changed the plans for the day to go to Hendersonville to do some labs. That will have to wait until another day.
Well, it did lead to another thing...see first paragraph...Strawyer and Punky came inside the garage and ate their supper tonight. Strawyer did a lot of exploring and I think he discovered the hidey hole of long ago of Riley's. He and Punky were able to eat undisturbed by Mr Meany.
Roy and I came to a decision today for me to cancel my trip to Houston. With the construction and the workmen to come into the house to complete work later in the process, we decided I needed to stick around especially since the building plans are fluid and subject to change. It was disappointing to let Houston friends know I won't be making the trip, Lisa even volunteered to come back but I told her she would be bored because we would have to stick around the house. Well, we are never bored but maybe cabin fever especially with the best part of spring ahead of us. Now to see if I can attend the luncheon next Thursday since the deadline to sign up was Sunday. In six or so weeks though, I will be so very, very happy I stayed home for the progress of the porch.
There was this glimmer of hope that Mr Meany had moved on because his mean presence didn't show up...well, that is until late yesterday afternoon. Punky and Strawyer are still around now and then and the past two days Mama Cat has shown up for a little snack. I am not feeding the cats as much and when the temps were in the 20's this week, I lifted the do not feed often tag because they need the food to help keep warm. Sadly, I have not seen Riley in over a week. I am trying not to go straight to the thought that she might not be in this world but it wouldn't surprise me. She had been acting strangely, not herself. This made me think that maybe she had lost her kittens especially when Mr Meany showed "dating" interest in her again and she reciprocated interest. I think the last time I saw her she was heading down the gravel road. With the construction as an added anxiety, this might have affected her. I hope she still has her kittens and moved someplace where she felt safe but my gut tells me otherwise. I feel horrible not getting her back to the vet. She trusted the human against her feral way and I let her down. I was looking through her pictures today and got teary eyed...that little kitten with the big ears and paws. the pink and black nose and that puny little meow. Those two months that she came into the garage were such pleasant ones while we played and she let me pet her. Life as a feral is so difficult yet Mama Cat and Camo live on....beating the odds.
This morning was a bit unnerving as Buddy got her leg caught in her collar. She was under the bed but I had changed her passage ways, not on purpose, but because of spring cleaning. I could hear her making a strange noise and she came out from under the bed and went to the hallway. She was lying on her side moving in a strange fashion. I picked her up and put her on the bed and only realized then she had her collar around her neck with one leg in it. As I tried to unclasp the collar she was fighting me tooth and nail and my hands bear the brunt of her defensive moves. I moved us away from the new white bedspread and into the front room. Got a pair of scissors and set her free. Once we were in the chair she quit fighting me and realized I was trying to help. She jumped off my lap but returned in a minute, seeming contrite and wanting a little head rubbing...what better way to celebrate release but with treats, so downstairs we went. Scared me that little episode. Wore her out but it changed the plans for the day to go to Hendersonville to do some labs. That will have to wait until another day.
Well, it did lead to another thing...see first paragraph...Strawyer and Punky came inside the garage and ate their supper tonight. Strawyer did a lot of exploring and I think he discovered the hidey hole of long ago of Riley's. He and Punky were able to eat undisturbed by Mr Meany.
Roy and I came to a decision today for me to cancel my trip to Houston. With the construction and the workmen to come into the house to complete work later in the process, we decided I needed to stick around especially since the building plans are fluid and subject to change. It was disappointing to let Houston friends know I won't be making the trip, Lisa even volunteered to come back but I told her she would be bored because we would have to stick around the house. Well, we are never bored but maybe cabin fever especially with the best part of spring ahead of us. Now to see if I can attend the luncheon next Thursday since the deadline to sign up was Sunday. In six or so weeks though, I will be so very, very happy I stayed home for the progress of the porch.
Tuesday, April 2, 2019
When Friends Come to Visit
Adventure ebbs and flows...it's different...unique to each experience. Lisa has been here since Saturday and we have relaxed and ventured forward, thither and yon looking for fun, adventure, places of wonder, places to wander and learn. Because we have been occupied with road trippin' and friendship, the chance to blog has been fleeting. We are now waiting on the arrival of my brother, thus for the next 24 hours...a whole lot of fun will be going on. He is probably less than an hour away, depending on I 40 past Knoxville.
Of course on Saturday I dropped off Roy and then hung around Charlotte till Lisa got in. It has been a very long time since I have been at the mall on a Saturday and I hope I won't have to return to the mall anytime soon...on a Saturday. Had a bowl of soup at the Nord...the sub par Nord and then went down to Belk with a stop at Anthropologie. Lots of fun stuff to see. A little before the flight arrived, I went to the Billy Graham Library, had a Diet Coke, did some shopping and then put the finishing touches on the Sunday School lesson. Lisa's flight arrived early and with the day being so beautiful, I put the top down on Mustang Sam to pick her up. We are no fools, we did not get on the freeway until we put the top back up. We stopped in Lincolnton to get a late lunch, early supper at Good Wood Pizza. Delicious as always and we sat out on their patio...which was delightful.
Sunday was church, Monday was Waynesville which includes Blue Rooster, Robin Blu and Hazelwood Soap Company. Tuesday we eased into the day and left around lunchtime to go to Johnson City. We had tickets to hear Liz Curtis Higgs and we were spending the night afterwards at a hotel. But first lunch, so we ate at Ole Guacamole and it was delicious as usual. Then we did a church drive by and then checked into the hotel. We had purchased VIP tickets to be able to do the meet and greet with Liz. That was a whole lot of fun and she is a hoot. So funny but teaches the Word of God in a way that you'll never quite forget. We looked at Mary, Martha and Lazarus...so familiar but she brought such new insight into the passages. Sadly, the evening went by quickly but we headed back to the hotel where we stayed up late talking about what we had heard and learned. Wednesday we headed over toward Grandfather Mountain with a detour to Roan Mountain scouting it out for future trips when the rhododendron is in bloom. The scenic drive was just that, scenic. We went through Cranberry NC and so now I know what the town of Cranberry holds. The likes of Cranberry couldn't hold us because we were on a mission...to get to Grandfather Mountain...to see if this was the day that Lisa would cross the bridge. While the temps were cool the sunshine abundantly provided warmth. After a quick stop at the main center we were up the mountain to join others in the pursuit of crossing a bridge but then not going too far. In my heart of hearts, I knew this would be the day for Lisa. And as is His custom, the Lord provided a trail blazer or should that be a bridge blazer for Lisa. We met Brad and Kristi from the Knoxville area. Kristi was having doubts herself and as it is there at the top of the mountain by the swinging bridge, people become fast friends, friends of faith or friends of fear. Kristi was about to leave when she got the oomph to cross and she took several steps out onto the bridge and came right back. A bunch of kids came up to the bridge and crossed without a hint of fear. Really, don't cross the bridge with kids on it, too crowded and they'll attempt to get that bridge to move a little more. The opportunity presented itself and Brad and Kristi began the journey and happily Lisa and I were arm in arm, hand in hand walking across the bridge. Being the loving and encouraging friend that I am, I tried to sing to calm Lisa's fear...first selection I'll Fly Away....okay not a good choice. We had listened to a Tommy Walker arrangement of Abide With Me and I thought that song might help, but she said in the nicest way, don't sing or say anything. Yes, on March 27th Lisa walked across the bridge. We took in a few moments of being on the other side and then began our trek back across with Lisa watching Kristi's ponytail bob up and down as she made a brisk pace. We went to the gift shop and got the tshirt for Lisa and I got her a pin to remember this moment. She had bought us pins at the Hazelwood Soap Company done by a local artist of a black hand and a white hand clasped together. The crossing pin went with that theme. What's not to love about being on a bridge a mile above the earth? Fears conquered, friends made and a tshirt. Sounds like a perfect day and it needed to be celebrated at The Italian Restaurant on the way home. Brenda came over once we got home and brought dessert to celebrate. We had all planned to go to breakfast on Thursday but with both Lisa and I having a bit of a snotty nose and cough we opted for an ease into the morning kind of day and waited for Doug to arrive.
So, that is where I will leave the story for now.
Of course on Saturday I dropped off Roy and then hung around Charlotte till Lisa got in. It has been a very long time since I have been at the mall on a Saturday and I hope I won't have to return to the mall anytime soon...on a Saturday. Had a bowl of soup at the Nord...the sub par Nord and then went down to Belk with a stop at Anthropologie. Lots of fun stuff to see. A little before the flight arrived, I went to the Billy Graham Library, had a Diet Coke, did some shopping and then put the finishing touches on the Sunday School lesson. Lisa's flight arrived early and with the day being so beautiful, I put the top down on Mustang Sam to pick her up. We are no fools, we did not get on the freeway until we put the top back up. We stopped in Lincolnton to get a late lunch, early supper at Good Wood Pizza. Delicious as always and we sat out on their patio...which was delightful.
Sunday was church, Monday was Waynesville which includes Blue Rooster, Robin Blu and Hazelwood Soap Company. Tuesday we eased into the day and left around lunchtime to go to Johnson City. We had tickets to hear Liz Curtis Higgs and we were spending the night afterwards at a hotel. But first lunch, so we ate at Ole Guacamole and it was delicious as usual. Then we did a church drive by and then checked into the hotel. We had purchased VIP tickets to be able to do the meet and greet with Liz. That was a whole lot of fun and she is a hoot. So funny but teaches the Word of God in a way that you'll never quite forget. We looked at Mary, Martha and Lazarus...so familiar but she brought such new insight into the passages. Sadly, the evening went by quickly but we headed back to the hotel where we stayed up late talking about what we had heard and learned. Wednesday we headed over toward Grandfather Mountain with a detour to Roan Mountain scouting it out for future trips when the rhododendron is in bloom. The scenic drive was just that, scenic. We went through Cranberry NC and so now I know what the town of Cranberry holds. The likes of Cranberry couldn't hold us because we were on a mission...to get to Grandfather Mountain...to see if this was the day that Lisa would cross the bridge. While the temps were cool the sunshine abundantly provided warmth. After a quick stop at the main center we were up the mountain to join others in the pursuit of crossing a bridge but then not going too far. In my heart of hearts, I knew this would be the day for Lisa. And as is His custom, the Lord provided a trail blazer or should that be a bridge blazer for Lisa. We met Brad and Kristi from the Knoxville area. Kristi was having doubts herself and as it is there at the top of the mountain by the swinging bridge, people become fast friends, friends of faith or friends of fear. Kristi was about to leave when she got the oomph to cross and she took several steps out onto the bridge and came right back. A bunch of kids came up to the bridge and crossed without a hint of fear. Really, don't cross the bridge with kids on it, too crowded and they'll attempt to get that bridge to move a little more. The opportunity presented itself and Brad and Kristi began the journey and happily Lisa and I were arm in arm, hand in hand walking across the bridge. Being the loving and encouraging friend that I am, I tried to sing to calm Lisa's fear...first selection I'll Fly Away....okay not a good choice. We had listened to a Tommy Walker arrangement of Abide With Me and I thought that song might help, but she said in the nicest way, don't sing or say anything. Yes, on March 27th Lisa walked across the bridge. We took in a few moments of being on the other side and then began our trek back across with Lisa watching Kristi's ponytail bob up and down as she made a brisk pace. We went to the gift shop and got the tshirt for Lisa and I got her a pin to remember this moment. She had bought us pins at the Hazelwood Soap Company done by a local artist of a black hand and a white hand clasped together. The crossing pin went with that theme. What's not to love about being on a bridge a mile above the earth? Fears conquered, friends made and a tshirt. Sounds like a perfect day and it needed to be celebrated at The Italian Restaurant on the way home. Brenda came over once we got home and brought dessert to celebrate. We had all planned to go to breakfast on Thursday but with both Lisa and I having a bit of a snotty nose and cough we opted for an ease into the morning kind of day and waited for Doug to arrive.
So, that is where I will leave the story for now.
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