keep in touch: Entering the State of relaxation

Re-entering the U.S. on via Atlanta airport has always been an ugly one. However, the last two returns have met with improved experiences. August 2009 taught me to accept waiting through the process of wheelchair service - getting impatient and trying to hoof it just was not as viable for me. Still, the physical facilities were showing signs of improvement.

This trip, beginning Wednesday May 29, 2010, saw a giant leap in service and facility accommodation. I was not only wheeled from the airplane, through customs, security and baggage check but all the way to the door of my rental car! Awesome and humbling. Someone finally picked up on the silent prayer of the masses.

My lucky rental was a cherry red, Toyota Camry. Supposedly a Green Car, I saw no signs of green except perhaps the gas mileage. Getting behind the wheel, it seemed tank-like at first but by the end, it was an extension of me.

The first host along the way was Greg and Ann Sutherland and their cat (the first of many along my travels), a friendly white haired gal. (At this point I beg forgiveness of all animals hosts. I can't remember your names but I remember you fondly.)

We figured out that it had been at least nine years since I'd been to their house - and what transformations had taken place! The addition of a big beautiful with dining area, where we ended up spending a lot of time catching up. The old kitchen area had become an 'office' for Ann, the old garage Greg's 'office' and, for me, a refurnished bedroom. Plus, lots more storage area including a new basement.

Leona, Greg and Ann outside an Inn/restaurant in Harlem, GA.

The fig tree Ann and Greg adopted from me and their cat (Misty?).

Muscadine, the native grape of the South and some views of their rural property.

The new interior: office, bedroom, office and kitchen/dining area.

Greg and sister, Mahduri.

Transformations without were even more major with the purchase of nearby property on which Ann's mother and Greg's sister, Leona and Mahduri, reside. We did a lot of visiting with them as well - really great to see Mahduri, especially, after so long. How much we have in common!

It was a nice way to re-enter the States - in a relaxed atmosphere with time enough to get me centered with a little stomping on old ground. Thanks to you all for that and for creating, as always, a welcoming space for me just as I am. I left their home Saturday May 29 headed for Atlanta area to meet up with my pal Stephanie and her new hubby, Michael.