Preparing and Remembering

The week of our trip is finally here. I am surrounded with piles of books, towels, and extraneous "stuff" that we need to take for a month long excursion. Our plans have taken a turn due to an unexpected trip to Norfolk this week for the memorial service of dear friend Susan Monroe. Susan died last week after a sudden illness. Susan was the wife of John Monroe a former pastor at Forest Hills Presbyterian Church and a dear friend as well. We have so many fond memories of youth trips with John and Susan. Once we were almost thrown out of a hotel in Williamsburg because of a racous game of PIT one of Susan's favorites. We slept in tents, log cambins, horse barns as we worked with the youth of Forest Hills. Susan was a gifted leader and the kids of our church learned much from her. Many sunny days were spent at Druid Hills pools sunning and lazing the days away solving the problems of the world. Although Susan and John moved many years ago to Norfolk, we still considered them the best of friends and knew that no mater what, we could count on them if we needed them. That is the mark of a a true friend.
We also lost a beloved Hokie and gentleman yesterday. Howard Muir, husband of Betty lost his battle with cancer. Howard and I often enjoyed working together on the fellowship committee at church, and many times "got into trouble" for our lack of detail! He was an avid Hokie, traveling to games with family and always cheering our beloved Hokies on. He was young at heart even though he was old guard! We will miss his twinkle, his dancing step and humor!

Keith and I will continue to prep for our trip and hopefully will pull out on friday or saturday dependent on our readiness. We look forward to time spent together, beautiful vistas, laughs and a true Griswald experience. Anything can happen when the Carr camper pulls out. We ask for your prayers for a safe journey!