Southern Charm

I left Atlanta with such a fondness for that part of the country, and the people I encountered.  There's something very special about children saying, "yes Ma'am"  and the adults apologizing with heartfelt, excuse me please.  I think we on the West coast have forgotten some of our manners and could take a tip from the Southern way of life.

I was so amazed by all of the white dogwood trees in full bloom.  There were lots of tall and skinny trees that hadn't fully developed their foliage yet, and in the midst of these would be several white dogwood trees popping up.  Add enormous vines of purple wisteria growing up trees and hanging gracefully down.  I never had the opportunity to take any photos of these, but oh...I did love them, and hope I can maintain the memory in my mind.

Saturday of my trip was a shower being given for Sasha by several of her friends.  What a nice group of young women.  All so accomplished!  Masters, Olympic athletes, families, and just an enjoyable afternoon getting a peek at where Sasha came from. 

The bride to be had such a good time.  Fabulous food, friends, and the games were absolutely hysterical.  Lynn one of the hostess' had phoned Luke ahead of time to ask questions.  For every question that Sasha got wrong, she needed to put in a piece of bubble gum.  By the end, her jaw was aching, and her speech was nearly unintelligible!

Another fun game was pictionary.  Teams were divided by which side of the table we were sitting on.  I'm pleased and proud to report that my side of the table triumphed!  Here is a shot of the winning photo.  Can you guess what it is?

If you guessed flower girl, you are correct!

No doubt the last peek we'll have of "something blue". 

I was honored to be invited and to share such a special day with so many beautiful women.  I can't wait to see them again in May.

This little dolly showed up at the end of the shower.  Her leg rest cracks me up!

On Sunday, Sasha and I met two of her friends in church.  I'd heard so much about Sasha's Atlanta church and was tickled to get to see it first hand.  When introduced to people, I would extend my hand to shake, only to be engulfed in a bear hug. "We hug around here" was what each person said.  I couldn't have been made to feel more welcome.  This is a very large church with four services, and an overflow room.  I knew there would be lots of folks just from the parking lot, and how far out we parked.  I was impressed how the church has taken a business within a five mile radius, and as a group, prayed for this business and encouraged the members to visit these business' and bless them.  The testimonials were wonderful, and you could feel the love in the room.  I have to say that the best part of the service for me was the music.  Dancing, drums, guitars, and amazing voices filled the large auditorium.  I may have been the only white face in the very large crowd, but I never once felt out of place, and only felt love and acceptance.  If only others could live this way, What a wonderful world this would be.