We
spent the weekend in Charlotte remembering and celebrating the life of
my sister. While it was hard for it not to be a sad event, taking a
little time after her death to pause and reflect allowed the entire
family to come together in Pam’s honor and, yes, to celebrate the good
times we shared with her.
spent the weekend in Charlotte remembering and celebrating the life of
my sister. While it was hard for it not to be a sad event, taking a
little time after her death to pause and reflect allowed the entire
family to come together in Pam’s honor and, yes, to celebrate the good
times we shared with her.
Every time I step foot below the Mason Dixon line, I am awed at what can only be called “Southern Hospitality”. Witnessing it while going through some of life’s most difficult moments, makes it even more special. From the waitress at our hotel who wrapped her arms around me after a long day at the hospital back in late October and said “honey, let me feed you”, to the people everywhere who hold doors, smile and say hello with a genuine civility, to the ladies at Pam’s church who so lovingly spent their Saturday preparing and serving a family lunch and dessert buffet after the memorial service…you can just “feel the love” in the South.
Stepping off the plane at LaGuardia and entering the hustle and bustle of New York at the holidays felt a bit like culture shock after spending so much time in North Carolina recently. This year, as we enter the holiday rush, I hope to embrace the spirit of my southern roots by remembering to do the little things that come naturally to most southerners – slow down a bit to hold doors, offer smiles and hellos to strangers…and eat lots of pimento cheese, grits and southern style green beans!
I do hope to find more time for blogging – it is my “happy place”. As many women with busy lives, I find that what I truly enjoy sometimes takes a back burner to my “to do” list, especially this time of year. But hopefully, I will be back as much as possible sharing my wanderlust with all of you on a more regular basis.
And, before I go…the winner of the “Ultimate Travel”
book is….Elizabeth from Pine Cones and Acorns…Congratulations,
Elizabeth!!
book is….Elizabeth from Pine Cones and Acorns…Congratulations,
Elizabeth!!
Have a beautiful day, y’all!
xoxo
I'm so glad the trip to NC wasn't all that 'heavy' on you Sandy.. I love living right on the northern border of the South, that lovely thought you shared by Dee Jackson is a perfect way to describe it. 🙂
I totally agree, Sandy. When we arrived in Mass. we had a rude awakening. Have a great week!
We agree that we shouldn't put anything that really brings us joy on the back burner, especially at this time of year when little things keep us going… We're so looking forward to seeing you tonight!
xxoo
C + C
Hi Sandy..all I can say amen for the south:) You are so right and I make the very same observations, things really are different there! I am sure it was a very special weekend to honor the life of your sister, as hard as I am sure it was. See you soon:)
YAY ELIZABETH!!!!!!!!!! Hi there, Sandy!
Sandy,
Your post was a sweet as Southern Iced tea. Growing up in KY, I do love the slower pace when I visit – it serves as a reminder for me to slow down and savor good memories and good times.
Thinking of you.
pve
Sandy,
This sentiment of Southern Hospitality is something I truly appreciate…and miss. Knowing Charlotte well, I can just imagine the warmth with which you were welcomed and comforted. I smile knowing that Pam lived there and I'm sure I knew some of her favorite places. I can also relate to the jarring difference that is here in the Northeast….not so much out here, but definitely stepping off the plane at LaGuardia.
Welcome home and into the holidays. I'm sure it will feel a little less jolly this year, but I hope that the best memories are the ones that come to you and that you find comfort in knowing what a wonderful relationship you shared with your sister.
Hugs!
Elizabeth
Sandy dear, This is a beautiful sentiment honoring your sister and the warm hospitality of your southern roots. Taking a little time to reflect, before a memorial service, can be a good thing. We did the same when my dad passed away. It is so touching how kind people can be–especially when you are going through a loss. My daddy was from South Carolina so we visited family there several times over the years. I always remember the kindnesses–and the grits!
I know this is not an easy holiday for you, my friend. Good to hear that you caught my post this week and that it was a bit helpful…I had you in mind when I posted it. Take good care of yourself and as you said it's the smallest gestures and memories that mean the most for your family at the holidays. Thinking of you today…
xx, Heather
I've been thinking of you and your sister, Pam. Having lost a sister myself, I know all too well how tough it is. I'm glad that we can find comfort and support in the blog world even if we can't participate as often as we'd like!