Heading Home from Home

I am writing this in flight heading back to Naples from Little Rock.

Over the past month I've spent about 10 days at "home".

Home being where I grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas. Even though I haven't actually lived there in 35 years, it still feels very familiar. My childhood home is there. The racquet club I spent long summer hours playing tennis and swimming has expanded, but parts are still recognizable. Particularly court 9, where my Dad and I hit hundreds of balls at all hours of the day, usually followed by a Coke and a Butterfinger. The Episcopal church our family attended has grown so much. Both my parents are laid to rest in the Columbarium garden. I remember on wintery days the steep drive to the church being iced over and we couldn't make it to the service that morning. But some how later in the day my Dad and I were bundled up and on the tennis court hitting balls. Hmmm, funny how that happens! Those types of memories come flooding back as I drive around town and revisit all these special places. A trip home would not be complete without a stop to Shipley's Donuts. Only the best donuts on the planet. Many Saturdays, my early rising Dad would have them waiting for us for breakfast. Nothing better on a Saturday morning than a chocolate filled donut, milk, and cartoons. My mouth waters just thinking about it now!

My best and childhood friend still lives in Little Rock. Being able to reminisce and connect with her is priceless. I also have very close friends of my parents that might as well be considered family living there. My cousin Martha is in Hot Springs.

Then there is my dear Aunt Margie, the reason for my last two visits home. She is in a rehab home and not doing well. My mom's sister. One of my last few adult relatives. I am heart broken that she is at the end of her life. I have so many wonderful memories of her. And because she is my mom's sister, I feel a connection to her like no one else. Her time has come and I accept what is happening to her. I hope she closes her eyes soon and heads home from home.


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