In the heat of August, with no solo journeys planned for this year, I've been immersed in memories of a past trip. What has brought it to mind is remembering my "Beta Reader," Mattie Belle who passed away one year ago. I'd made a promise to her that I would "keep writing" as she'd directed; … Continue reading Follow that Push: Trust Your Instinct
#peopleinmypath
Feeling Fragile: Finding a Network of Support
Over the past week, there were three consecutive days when I felt the fragility of life, the impact of growing older. On Tuesday night, I went to the Blues Jam at the Blue Note Grill in Durham. I've been going there to dance since last November. Over that time, I've found the people to be … Continue reading Feeling Fragile: Finding a Network of Support
Treasures from our Trips
My Facebook feed has been filled with pictures of friends and family on vacation. Some have taken trips to beach destinations, some to other spots in the US, and a few, places in Europe. There was a shot made by a friend from her beach chair-- her bare feet pointed toward the ocean as she … Continue reading Treasures from our Trips
Changing Seasons of Our Lives
This is Memorial Day Weekend. Our US Flags are flying, honoring those who have provided military service for our country, and remembering those who sacrificed their lives. Many people are taking their first summer vacations. It's been a rainy, chilly three days in central North Carolina. Mostly a good time for leisurely reading and afternoon … Continue reading Changing Seasons of Our Lives
Slow and Steady Progress
Last week was a time of simple focus; just set a small goal for the day and let everything else go. On Monday, my cousin, Kim drove me back to where I used to live for a much-needed haircut appointment. It was more than I could do to drive and to get myself to the … Continue reading Slow and Steady Progress
Herons on the Shoreline
It's the first of April and springtime is apparent everywhere with dogwoods in full bloom, tulips and irises at their peak, and new buds making the trees look like a study in green. I'm waiting on the bluebirds to come to their new house and feeder in my garden area, but so far, only cardinals … Continue reading Herons on the Shoreline
Evergreen Diaspora: A New Kind of Church
Last week I talked with Paula, my friend that I met years ago when we worshipped together at Evergreen Methodist Church (UMC) near Chapel Hill. At that time, my two sons were in middle school and active in the youth group as well as the Boy Scout Troop--based at Evergreen. It was a busy time … Continue reading Evergreen Diaspora: A New Kind of Church
The Rawleigh Lady: Through Changing Times
Last week I wrote my first post about Mama's role as The Rawleigh Lady. Her route was in the neighborhoods where Black people lived, the area referred to as "Colored Town" by White folks. One of my readers, MJ commented, "Your Mom was a trailblazer"; and she was right. It's taken me years to realize … Continue reading The Rawleigh Lady: Through Changing Times
Journey to Chincoteague: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Adventure
In last week's post, I shared my fear of crossing over the Chesapeake Bay-Bridge Tunnel (CBB-T) on my trip to Chincoteague Island, Virginia. I ended with this summary of that experience: Looking back on that trip, I'm grateful that I had the experience of navigating the CBB-T by myself. I would have avoided it if … Continue reading Journey to Chincoteague: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Adventure
Planning Your Next Pilgrimage
For twenty years I was a school nurse. Though I've been retired from that position for over five years, I still find myself following the rhythm of the school year. By this time, with the holiday stretch from Thanksgiving through the MLK Holiday weekend, the reality of winter and the long road to Spring break … Continue reading Planning Your Next Pilgrimage