Just got back from a terrific visit to North Carolina, visiting with my dad and Anne. This was the first time I have been out to see them and the first time I’ve ever been to the “Old North State".
My overall impression of NC was very favorable. I couldn’t get over the abundance of trees. It was breath taking. Add in, that my trip coincided with Fall and it’s spectacular tapestry of orange, golds, and reds... making it the perfect time to witness the change in seasons. 
Here are some of the highlights of my trip:
- Looking Glass Falls. Absolutely gorgeous!!! (see photo above)
- Playing Banagrams, a crazy crossword-like game that I have a passion for, with my dad (…. “peel”).
- Getting my first look at my dad’s book (personal memoir and Findlay family history). It was just awesome to see the detail dad has gone into to write his story. It is a legacy that will be appreciated by everyone in our family and generations to come.
- Attending the terrific “Brevard Library Book Sale” (which had so many “fabulous” books for sale… that I wishing I had more storage space in my carryon luggage).
- Going out to eat at the Twin Dragons Chinese Buffet (which gave the word “fabulous” an even better meaning). I think I am still full!
- Returning to the Brevard Library Book Sale two days later... to take advantage of the ½ price discount. More importantly, being fortunate enough to have a dutiful father that allowed his bibliophile daughter to take all the time she wanted to comb each and every bookshelf for treasures. Then spoiling me rotten, by telling me to stock up up to my heart's content. Dad proceeded to pay the bill and ship the entire loot by USPS to Utah. Thank you dad!
- Having the opportunity to attend a potluck dinner and lecture seminar at dad and Anne’s church. This gave me the opportunity to meet some of their friends and visit the church that has become such a large part of their life.
- Being able to help my dad out with his computer. Over the years, my dad has done so much for me. So, it was a joy to be able to help him out a bit with my computer expertise. It was my small way of “giving back”.
- Going out for Mexican Food. Margaritas and Mariachis… what a great combination. I don’t think I have ever seen such a lively rendition of the Macarena.
- Spending time getting to know my stepmother. While Anne and my dad have been married for many years now, I can count the number of visits we’ve had on just one hand. So, it was great to finally have a nice chunk of time to get to know each other. Anne and I spent many hours nattering at the breakfast table (not sure if we ever got dressed before noon?). I am grateful that I got to learn about her past, her children, and her present life with my dad. (PS... Anne, thank you so much for the packed lunch you made me for the plane ride home.)
- Having two sets of eyes and ears … willing to look at photographs and hear stories about my husband, my kids, and my life in Utah.
All in all, it was truly a wonderful week. I can't even complain about the rain. I loved visiting North Carolina. I loved getting a glimpse of dad and Anne's life in their Brevard home. Which allows me to now visualize what they do each day. I can now understand why they are two of the busiest retirees I know. (I thought you were supposed to slow down when you stopped working?).
I hope that I can get out to North Carolina again one day. Next time, I hope I can bring my boys with me. I think that they too would enjoy the scenery and wonderful family that awaits them there.
