Day 39 - Tuesday, July 27 - Hickory

Day 39 - Tuesday, July 27 – Washed and dried laundry at Chrissy’s.

Renate called Peter to tell of Ginny’s (Pigeon Forge) grandson, Jason (in Jupiter) who could use a graphic artist to work with his printing business. Peter called back excited that it might be a great fit and will be meeting Jason in 2 days.

Keep in mind Chrissy and family were still on vacation, traveling to return this afternoon.

Drove back to Union Square (we didn’t yet know there was more to the town).

Ate lunch at Josh’s – “exciting, casual dining”, according to outdoor ad-board. I had burger in a wrap with gouda and soup. Good. Renate did not care much about her crab cake sandwich. And we both agree some of the weakest coffee ever. Served unwisely in a sleek, clear-glass, the visual presentation highlighted the coffee's weakness. 
But we shared bourbon pecan pie a la mode good taste and texture.

Drove to the Patrick Beaver Memorial Library “on the SALT Block” that also has other arts buildings. A story in the local “Focus” community paper invited “kids of all ages” to see traveling Dave Gulick, The Birdman at 2:30.

About 100 kids mostly 2-8 years old and 25 adults in attendance. His Macau flew around room and did a few tricks. He’s good with kids, getting all to play “Simon Says” – imitating the bird’s convoluting head and body movements.

A parakeet flew to volunteers hands.

Final act built up to a let-down: Best talking, cleanest, most kid-friendly bird – recommended to parents ever thinking of a purchase: a puppet.

We drove out on Center street to discover a normal city does lie beyond Union Square.

Back “home”, Chrissy and family soon arrived. Chrissy looks great and has a wonderful family: Eric teaches Spanish at nearby Lenoire-Rhyne College. He learned it in schools (starting in his Detroit HS), and many Chilean and Mexican visits. He likes the same Portuguese music that Renate likes.

Daughter Larkin is 13, does drama and sings. Miles, 11, kept wanting to toss or bat baseball as soon as he was released from the long car ride.

Wine, bread, olive oil and cheese accompanied much talking. Much to recall about Twin Lakes, Debate, life at Schuman’s house. Chrissy’s parents - Frank and Joan – elderly advocates, showed up. Renate especially charmed and engaged in long conversations with both.

Salad and veggie lasagna later.

Chrissy and Eric lived in Gainesville, then Santa Fe – he teaching HS Spanish and she making leather purses and taking up pastries. Moved to better job and love Hickory. Eric also knows some German, results of college-years European trips for Ultimate Frisbee competition! Chrissy teaching art and drama at private school grades 1-8.

We caught up on Lakes people:

Mike W. atty in WPB.

Mitch G’s job includes helping nations change laws to appease UN funds approvals. Lives with “Rocky” in the Presidio district, San Francisco.

Jane B in New York, no longer real estate but adjunct professor teaching Cooking for One.

Andy J a high school principal in LA. Formerly head of science curriculum.

Seashell trinkets and kids gifts of slinky, harmonica, and labyrinth well-received.

Labyrinth. But I bought a mini version.

It worked by tilting the whole box.

There is a TV downstairs, inside a den’s secretary. No cable. Hardly matters. Many books. Much reading. Even Renate now reading one of Chrissy’s books. She’ll “borrow” it. (Hindsight - she forgot!)

A really pleasant family evening.

Oh! In case you don't know what a "trundle" is:

Renate got to be on top.