January 14, 2013

• Family

  My weekend was spent at the funeral event of my Great Aunt Jackie.  She was the youngest sister of my Granddaddy.  

  My boyfriendless friends and I used to joke that when we grew up, we would be Baptist Nuns.  Well, I was related to one.  She was present at every family reunion, many Christmases and Thanksgivings, most Birthdays of all the cousins, and the occasional Sunday Dinner. Also, one week during the summer we would stay with her for Computer Camp.  She didn't drive. She never married.  She lived on campus at Williams Baptist College where she worked.  And yes, I said Computer Camp.  We would play Phase 10, and watch Narnia (the old one on VHS), surrounded by ceramic frogs and bells.  She always sent a card and a present for birthdays and Christmas signed "Love and Prayers" - Aunt Jackie.  

  It's so odd being away from family.  Being spread from North Carolina to Ft Worth, TX has really made it's mark on us.  Being back in Northeast Arkansas with almost everyone was amazing.  Something as simple as Church Prepared Food can make you miss how it used to be.   I have been under the impression that no family eats the same things in the same way.  I have spent time with many families, and many pot lucks.  I've never thought, "now this is how it's supposed to be."  Then, as I sat at a church in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas I found it.  5 tables full of people I am actually related to (or close enough), eating food that actually tastes right.   Don't get me started on the wind and the sky.  It makes me think, maybe TX is not where I belong.  Then again.  I can't think of any town in Northeast Arkansas that I would want to Frequent.   Maybe Memphis is close enough?  Should I renew my dream to be in Memphis?  

  Leah K.

  • 5:13 pm
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