Last of Summer's Bounty

The tomato vines at my parents' are yielding the last few fruits of the season. They have been plenitful as both my parents have 2 green thumbs. My dad loves to be in the soil...plowing, planting, weeding. My mom is the picker and preparer. But best of all they always share the harvest with friends and family. From blueberries to beans, corn and tomatoes, and now scuppernongs and turnip greens, there is always a crop in season at the Hopkins "Farm". I appreciate that my parents taught me a love of the outdoors and the joy of growing something from a seed that can beautify your yard or provide a delicious meal for your table.

A Look Back

Today I am posting an old photo of my parents wedding day. On October 28, my parents will celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary. They have stayed true to those vows spoken quite a few years ago. They have taught me to endure, even during the difficult times.

Also pictured here are my grandparents, all now deceased. On the left--my mom's parent--Big Daddy and Big Mama. Although after 25 years of calling her Big Mama, she decided she didn't like that name because she wasn't big and we had to start calling her Grandmama McKinley. Big Daddy used to pour his coffee in a saucer to let it cool and then sipped it from the saucer. We of course had to follow his example.

On the right, my dad's parent's--Mama Lucy and Papa Hop. I didn't know Papa Hop very well. He died when I was about 6. I know he was a barber. But Mama Lucy--who also later changed her name to Grandma--taught us how to crochet and let us cut paper dolls out of her old pattern books.

My grandfathers both died when I was young, but my grandmothers played an important role in my life as a young person.

Let's take a look back...

Here is an oldie. That's me in the middle. The oldest child with my dear parents. They have been the firm foundation in my life. They have given me my faith, integrity, optimism, drive and determination. I grew up feeling safe and loved and although they struggled sometimes to make ends meet, I thought that we were rich!! And we were--in all the things that count the most. I thank God everyday for my parents and that I still have them with me. I am truly blessed.