Reconnect, Celebrate and Remember. Homecoming 2012

Photo courtesy William Odell "Capt. Dell" Spain

          I have had a hard time today trying to get accounts settled, paperwork in order and notes completed to get out of this office.  I am heading to the Island tomorrow afternoon, Goose Creek Island that is. It's Homecoming weekend!
     I haven't been to Homecoming in quite a few years.  I can still recall the mounds of fried shrimp and softcrabs lining the table.  How could I ever forget Emily Ballance's delicious chicken and pastry; I headed for that pot first thing!  How about all those wonderful desserts and pies that would beckon me to try a slice of each.
     My ride to Goose Creek Island will be begin in Down East, a place that has strong ties to the Island. I'll head west towards Core Creek and then make the turn North to catch the Cherry Branch/Minnesott Beach ferry.  I'll take in the view of the mighty Neuse and come ashore "where the land and the sea meet the sky". I'll cruise through Bayboro, reminisce about my school days and then make the turn.  The turn to journey home.  It's amazing how that ride has changed but yet so much still feels the same.
    In the distance just past Gales Creek Bridge, the Island will come into view. Crossing the bridge, I'll take in the beautiful view of Jones Bay and make the quick glance "up the canal" to see if any boats are starting their annual migration South.
     This weekend is going to be a dandy of a Homecoming.  The first one since Hurricane Irene slammed into our shores just a little over a year ago. It's hard to explain, but when you leave something good, you can never wait to get back.  It's where memories are sweetened with love and affection and where good friends and good times are our reward.  It's the kind of place where it's never hard for home folks to talk you in to coming back...and come back soon!
     In each mile that I'll drive to get home, the more I will leave behind all the paperwork.   I'll be driving towards something that has been meaningful to my life, my upbringing, my raising.  It doesn't matter what I am going to do when I get there, it's just being there that matters.
     So before I go, if there is anyone else out there heading home...no matter where your home is, THIS IS FOR YOU!  No matter where our special places are, I'm sure there's someone there waiting to see you!
     Godspeed and God Bless
            Tina