Paul and Elizabeth's Home

What a lovely visit and what a lovely home! Thank you Paul and Elizabeth for a delightful weekend! I love you guys!

Sophie

Just had to include the newest picture of little Sophie. She has been and continues to be a constant source of joy and laughter to me! Thank you, Lord, for sending her to me!

Tascombia and Mooresville

We ended the evening with a delightful tour of Tascombia and Mooresville, Alabama. Tascombia was Helen Keller's home town and Mooresville is Alabama's oldest township. Two buildings fascinated me. The Church in the bottom row, center is the oldest, still used church building in Alabama. What was so special about the structure to me was the "spire" of the steeple. Instead of merely being a straight rod or a cross, it was instead a sculpted marble hand pointing heavenward.....Lovely! The post office is also the oldest continually operating post office in Alabama.

Helen Keller's Home Contd.

The Docent who guided us told us that 90% of the furnishings of the home were original. Ms. Keller's childhood dresses were on display, as well. I was so moved by the "Pump" where the Light broke through Helen's darkness and could almost see her ecstasty when understanding the name for "water". The Little House, where Annie Sullivan had taken her in order to begin to harness and guide her spirit was intact and the original furnishings were in the tiny rooms. I learned that Helen had a 160 IQ, an indomitable spirit, and a deep relationship with the LORD. I left hope filled and inspired!

Helen Keller's Home

What a delightful day with Paul and Elizabeth! Paul took us to Ivy Green, Helen Keller's birthplace and childhood home. God's presence could be felt in every room. What a remarkable woman! The picture of Ms. Keller shown here has her favorite verse inscribed below it in her own hand...."Yea though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I will fear no evil for Thou art with me." She is known as America's "First Lady of Courage". I was so thankful to have been able to visit! Thanks Paul and Elizabeth!

Aunt Pitty Pat and Uncle Bill...and Luna

What a blessed time with two dear friends from childhood days! Whirlwind hours of "catching up", the Martin's ever present wit and laughter, enchanting tales, precious antics of adorable Luna, and reliving memories of all too long ago times....these were my last two days in the Highlands of North Carolina with Aunt Pat and Uncle Bill! I am so humbled that they would have me in their "summer abode". Pat and Bill are such gracious hosts and made me feel so welcomed and comfortable and loved! Thank you both....not only for allowing the recollections of days gone by, but for creating new memories that will be enduring imprints on my mind and heart! The surrounding beauty of the hills, the peaceful and enchanting setting of your mountain get away, the engaging conversation and the absolute delight of antiquing with a "pro" (and her self-sacrificing chauffer/husband) will indeed be a treasured part of the warp and woof of my life! Aunt Pat, I included pictures of my soon-to-be-used glassware and the lovely print you found in their new home. They, along with the beautiful necklace you gave me, will serve as cherished reminders of you! Thanks for the memories! I love you!