From Stormy Skies to Inspiring Minds

Happy April!

First, I’d like to start by saying that I hope everyone dealing with storms this week is safe. I know some may have lost property, which is devastating in itself—but lives are definitely more important (both animal and human). Prayers for everyone and their safety.

Thursday morning, the school trip to Oxford, MS, began for the Southern Literary Festival. We did get a late start—one of the students overslept, and we all agreed to wait. Our professor was super nice about it, and time- and distance-wise, it made more sense to pick him up than to come back to the school to regroup with the other cars. It actually worked out for me because it gave my sweetheart time to bring me my laptop. So, Cameron, you are forgiven.

We also dealt with storms both to and from Oxford. But we made it safely. We had two Airbnbs, and they were nice. Luckily, the rain gave us a break on Friday, which was good because we walked a lot—more than I’ve walked in the last month. It was great exercise, but boy, was I tired at the end of the day. We even walked to the square, which was several blocks away from one of the Airbnbs.

The Southern Literary Festival was interesting and inspiring. I found the Magic of Magic Realism in Fiction presentation especially helpful with some of my story ideas. There were several other good presentations and keynote speakers, too.

We were supposed to return on Saturday but ended up staying in Jackson, TN, – which turned out to be a good decision. We stopped at Waffle House to eat and figure out which hotel to stay at. While there, we met the most adorable little 2-year-old boy. His father was the cook and was able to keep watch over him with help from the waitress—and, while we were there, from us! He really fell for Kayla and kept her hopping. Seriously though, we all fell for this little heartbreaker. When we left, he gave all of us several hugs. I think he would have kept Kayla there longer if he could have—she was great with him.

This was a good trip with a great group of people, all the way from the drive to Oxford to the drive back. Getting to know the other students and professors was fun, and I hope to see some of them again in the future.

A huge thank you to Professor S. for putting the trip together and making the tough decisions about where to go, what to do, and choosing to stay the extra night.

To Professor Arlo, and to the girls’ chaperone and librarian (not sure of her full title) Kelly—thank you for being our fearless leaders on this trip!

And to the other students: Siri, Kayla, Grace, Hannah, Jetzemani, and Cameron—it was fun getting to know each of you, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

I stepped out of the comfort zone I’d put myself in — and had a wonderful time. Thank you all again.

Till next time… may your days be filled with love, laughter, hugs, and blessings!