Ruth 1:16 – “for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.”
My wife and I are keeping our anniversary tradition alive this week. We enjoy taking a little trip each year to explore small towns as we celebrate another year together.
Our first night together as husband and wife was in Mineola, an east Texas town with a nice bed and breakfast inn; Seller’s Corner. Then on to Hot Springs, Arkansas. Quite a sleepy place when we were there. I felt like Bob Phillips, Texas Country Reporter as we got to know people and hear their story.
Our innkeeper in Hot Springs recommended the Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge in Mena, Arkansas. So, I gave them a call and, thanks to a cancellation, got a room with a fireplace to serve as the last stop of our honeymoon. We drove Skyline Drive with the fall colors on display.
This year, Guthrie, Oklahoma. We wandered the town today. We talked to a young lady from Colorado Springs, helping in her mother’s antique store. I asked if she had any merchandise in the store. “Sadly, one item.” And she pointed out a nice painting on the wall. “Looks nice.” She seemed very kind and shy, but got to talking once she got started.
Another shopkeeper was selling a board game. My wife asked her ” Who is your supplier for this game?” She: ‘I have an in with the supplier.” Later she revealed the creator was her son and his wife.
Another guy, Christopher, sells Gentleman Jerky and has a sandwich shop. I had his Ajax plate. Best meal I have had in a while. The Licorice Man, who was supposed to be closed today, opened up to receive two cases of taffy from UPS and to chat with us. “Sample all you want to.” He had retro candy as well.
The owner of The Heritage Collection has been in Guthrie since the mid 1960s. I find that most people enjoy sharing about themselves. And I enjoy hearing it.
My new problem? Where to next year? If God is willing. Happy 34th. Let’s pray for one more. Father in heaven, thank You for life’s simple pleasures, in Jesus’ name, Amen!
-Jeff Beall
