changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes

Each year, just about the time everything in the southeastern United States is covered in a yellow-green haze, teenagers around the country throw their arms in the air and joyfully scream "SPRING BREAK '_(insert year here)_".

Ok, and maybe a few over-zealous twenty-somethings who brilliantly chose the best career ever do too.

And yes, I know what you're thinking.

Those of you who have been stuck in an office for the past week are cursing my name for reminding you that I have spent the last week basking in the sun on a radiantly white sand beach, listening to the waves crash against the shore, while sipping a deliciously refreshing frozen concoction that has relaxing powers enough to make you forget your own first name...(so, I may exaggerate...a little...) 

To you I only have one thing to say.  Life is all about choices.  Sorry yours aren't as well thought out as mine.

Now that we have that out of the way...

This year I got to share a part of my childhood with two of my favorite people: T, and our other gifted-decision-making, teacher friend, Shanna.   With their over-stuffed luggage in tow, the three of us made the 7 hour drive south to Apalachacola.  Years ago, my grandparents bought and restored a historic home in the small town.  Being a historic home, the walls preserve memories of the distant and not-so-distant past, from military housing to wedding receptions.  My family has made this piece of "forgotten coast" our vacation home every summer for as long as I can remember.  Once both of my grandparents retired, they packed up their home in Atlanta and made Apalach their permanent residence.

In a town of just under 2,500 people (and limited cell phone reception), time seems to move a little slower.  In fact, after a few days in the "small drinking town with a big fishing problem," you realize you have no idea what time it is, little recollection of what day it is, and quite frankly, you like it better that way.

 

I throughly enjoyed showing the girls around town and getting some much needed days of relaxation.  I'm also glad that I was able to spend time with my grandparents, who did everything they could to help us feel at home.  We spent a day at the beach, explored some interesting shops in town, ate fantastic seafood, took the boat up the river (after a few failed attempts and with the help of a determined Pawpaw), and even attend an exclusive 'Deacon's meeting.'  I only hope that T and S enjoyed themselves as much as I did--and their little glimpse into the small town life of an oysterman.

The preacher man himself