So it's been close to a year since we relocated to our new home in Tennessee. During that time I have learned many things about surviving this new country life of mine. Such as....cows really can run fast, chickens multiply rapidly (52 chicks at last count), everyone is super friendly, people love to visit, and my favorite is that people love to share stories of days gone by.
Now in all my years of living I've never lived anywhere that people were so friendly, even if they don't know you. Here I can drive down the road, or be sitting on the porch at my father-in-laws, and every single person that goes by, waves. This kind of friendliness is contagious, so if you see me you best be waving!
I visit with my father-in-law just about everyday, even if it's just a brief few minutes to talk. Sometimes we just talk about the weather, the farm, school, anything really. I just know that he enjoys the visits, and he's been wonderful to us. The bus drops Megan off at his house each afternoon. And you can bet he's got candy or other goodies stocked up in the house for her. It makes me happy to see how they've bonded over this last year, and for her to have some stability in her life. Because for the first 12 years of her life, she would live somewhere for a few years, then move. I know it was tough for the girls to switch schools, and make new friends. But I know they also got experiences that many children don't get in life. So it's been nice for all of us to settle down in one spot.
Some weekends we head to Sunday lunch with his Aunt's family. A house full of Rick's cousins sharing a meal and great conversation. The meal includes all kinds of wonderful home cooking, and the stories are priceless. It's nice to know that family is still so very important, and they've welcomed us with open arms.
The stories that I've heard about Rick's childhood make me smile. One thing that is very obvious is the love. He tells me stories of being with his Mamaw each day while his Dad worked, spending weekends with his Aunt Carolyn, and playing with his cousins. The weeks during the summer that he and his dad would spend on the houseboat. Being able to run and play in the woods or the creek, but knowing that he had to stay close enough to the house to hear his Mamaw call for him. Him and his cousin Bev asking Mamaw to cook them a opossum, only to learn it wasn't very good. The stories are endless, but you can tell what a wonderful childhood he had, and how much he loved each of them.
I'm sad to have not been able to have met the woman who had such a profound influence on the man he's become today. But I have heard many stories, and I feel the love whenever anyone speaks of her.
We also have some wonderful friends as well, it's always nice to spend time with them. No matter whether it's doing something outdoors, sharing a great meal, or an intense game of Rook! It's always a guaranteed great time, with lots of laughs.
So I think it's safe to say I'm adjusting well, there are still a few minor hiccups. The gravel road to the cabin drives me insane!!!!! Every time I drive, it's like a game trying to dodge the potholes and divots caused by the rain. And when you tell folks that you will need 4 wheel drive to get out, they kinda give you that worried look. That first drive down is a doozy :) And need I mention those slithery, slimy reptiles that are now out and about. Despise them....so if you're able to get down here don't mind the smell of moth balls that surround the house. I'm told it's an excellent snake repellent!
Until next time friends & family!
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