Surprised Twice

Nightly Gathering Open Thread Post 161

I only worked about an hour this morning and took the rest of the day off. Part of it was because of the sixth month anniversary, but part was because I had things to take care of before the camp started.

On my way to taking my hubby's car in to get some diagnostic work done, I passed three interesting things, all very out of the ordinary for this road. One, a mother goose was walking her three goslings right across this fairly busy two lane (in each direction) road. (grassy median in the middle) Her timing was perfect and they kept up with her. It didn't stop traffic, but it was adorable. Second, ten seconds later were three vultures pecking away at a dead deer in the median. Third, and the first real surprise, was, I kid you not, a great blue heron flew right across the road. Now this area is near Hays front side, but it was still a shock.

I'm honestly starting to really wonder if Morgan's spirit sometimes inhabits these big birds. I'd had to take a very early morning walk and of course it was to The Spot today where I talked to her longer than usual.

The second surprise happened at the start of our camp. There is a new young couple who is helping, and I was conversing and getting to know the wife. It turns out the young man went to the same University in Ohio my son did at the same time, but it was large enough they weren't likely to know each other. The surprise happened with the question, “Is that your only child?” I'd only encountered that once before, at the hairdresser, and I'd prepared myself ahead of time knowing it would likely be asked. This truly was a surprise. I actually choked up but answered something to the effect, “Yes, now.” But it wasn't said in a way where I was visibly emotional. Still trying to get to know me more, she then asked, “What brought you to Alabama?’ My emotional dam burst. My friend sitting next to me told this young lady that today was the 6 month anniversary for me. I got up and walked and cried, needing to be out of that situation.(It was Morgan's beach volleyball scholarship to UAB, that initially brought us to the state: hubby and I ventured into Huntsville and fell in love with it)

It took me about ten minutes, with Rock 4 helping me emotionally as well, before I got back to normal. I think it's a good thing I'm around all these kids this weekend though, and I'm thankful for them.

I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too are to love one another.

John 13:34 AMP