Re “On the Road Again”

Dateline Dayton — Here is my account of the return trip from Florida where my brother and I went to help move my aunt my aunt who was leaving her longtime home in Piqua, just north of Dayton.

After having lunch with my son Chris on Thursday, my brother Mark and I were on our way home via Cataula, Ga, where Mark and his wife Carol have lived twice. He wanted to visit with former neighbors and friends. I never had seen see either of his homes or that area of the country, so I agreed to take the trip — as if I had a choice. It was 90 minutes out of our way.

We arrived at Mike and Connie’s about 8 on Thursday evening as Mark had made arrangements with them to park the trailer at their house. Mark got a real welcome upon arriving from all, Mike, Connie, their three children and the dog. It was if a long lost relative had returned. As we pulled in their driveway, they were trying to guess if Mark — my younger brother — was driving or in the passenger seat. They had him pegged in the passenger seat, which made me feel good, as just the Sunday before someone had asked if I was his dad.

After introductions and getting the trailer in its proper location, so as not to block either of their vehicles, we proceeded next door to Mel and Jan’s house, our home away from home the next two days. Mel was on a business trip in Kansas City, so Jan was our hostess for the evening.

Although I had never met Jan, she made me feel as if I were family. Mel and Jan had lived in Dayton, but we already had moved from their neighborhood prior to their arrival. I did, however, know many of the people they spoke about who lived in the old neighborhood.

Food was first on Jan’s list. She wanted to know what I would like since we had not had supper. A bowl of cereal, I said. It was after 9. I didn’t want much.

On Friday, Mark had an errand to run, so on the way he took me past the two homes where they had lived. Afterward, we went to the Front Porch of the South, a big flea market, craft store and antique store all in one. I found a few mugs of interest, which, up to now, was my only purchase, other than food.

By the time we got back to the house, Mel had returned from his trip. Both Mel and Jan are great people who can make people feel very at ease.

No sooner had we been seated than the conversation turned to food, supper. Mel made suggestions and settled on steaks. He went to the market and came home with three large steaks, which he grilled. Jan baked potatoes and fixed broccoli. We also had garlic bread, which Mel would feed to the parrot. I didn’t mention that they had a parrot, Poppie, who talks up a storm, along with two cats and a dog.

That evening we sat outside in the driveway. Mike and Connie came over and joined us for some lively conversation. Mike left early and Connie stayed, telling stories that had us laughing till it hurt.

Saturday morning Mel fixed steak and eggs for breakfast. He had used all the steak that was left from the evening before. After c a late breakfast we headed for Callaway Gardens, a manmade landscape in a unique natural setting. Its 13,000 acres provide a wholesome family environment where you will find beauty, relaxation, inspiration and a better understanding of the living world. I purchased postcards, my second buy on this trip.

The facility has many attractions such as a discovery center, butterfly center, horticultural center, azalea garden, vegetable garden, chapel, bicycle trail, zip line, beach golf, lodging and environmentally friendly home sites and homes.

After the quick tour of the gardens and a short tour of the area, it was time for lunch. Mel took us to the Three Pigs, where we all enjoyed a delicious pork sandwich.

After lunch we went back home as Jan and I were going to church. The church was beautiful and guests were asked to say where they were from. Turns out a couple sitting behind me that were originally from Cleveland and they spoke to me after the service. When I told them my name, they asked if I was related to Mark. They were friends. Small world!

Supper was on the table when we got home, in the4 form of pizza. The evening was spent again in the driveway, looking for falling stars and listening to Mel and Connie, who had joined us later in the evening.

Sunday, we were on our way home, arriving back in Piqua about 7.

The best way to describe the visit to Georgia is – great people and a beautiful area. I’m looking forward to visiting Mel, Jan, and the neighbors in the near future when I take Pauline to see the beautiful Callaway Gardens.

Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net