The past few months have been a welcomed whirlwind of activity. Road trip travels. Unexpected jet-setting.
And visits from fellow Okies – James surprised me with a post birthday
appearance in Durham. Jeremy and Kathleen joined us for a relaxing
extended weekend.
Liz and I whipped up
the whirlwind when we set off on a four hour drive to spend my birthday in
Asheville, NC. The scene was set as we drove to the Smoky Mountains through red
and yellow leaves that fell like large snowflakes. An unlikely North Carolina
storm washed away any concerns that we may have had before we spent several
nights and days balancing relaxation and exploration.
The Airbnb we stayed
at was perfect and the host could not have had a better. The neighborhood (just
across from the River District) was a pairing of homes that had been there for a
while, as well as modern homes, that were all quaintly situated on the steep
incline of the foothills. A chicken coop was located just outside of our door (a
selling point actually). It was doubly enjoyable waking up to the sound of
clucking hens (it has been too long) and having coffee with the sassy egg-laying
ladies. Liz and I spent our time eating, drinking, and we were merry.
It was the conclusion of
another year of my life well spent. Conversations were had of the
accomplishments over the past year. The present was discussed, as was the way
that the future should look. Planning life as I all too frequently call it. It deserves a toast…well, that and
suiting up.
