It seemed like I’d never get there. My plane was delayed over two hours on departure and I knew it was going to mess up plans for the whole weekend. When the plane landed I felt exhausted. After getting up at 4:30 a.m. to leave the house on time, I was already feeling like it was a long, long day. I walked slowly through the Fresno terminal, eyes down, concentrating on just getting outside. I texted my dad and was told where to go to meet them. Then I heard this voice saying “is that you,” as I almost walked right by my future “bonus mom.” And I felt warm arms around me, enclosing me in a much-needed hug. And just like that, snap, out of the travel trance.
We loaded into the car and headed off to pick up some things for the wedding. We stopped at a beautiful country store I had admired years ago, when it was closed for Covid. This time I got to go inside. I met a few nice people, a couple dogs and watched some kids hanging out on the porch of what must be their daily stop after getting off the school bus. It reminded me a lot of the old days around Ned.
Errands completed, we headed to the house. It’s funny because my dad says “our house” and Aniko says “your house,” about my dad. Something I’m sure they’ll settle when the time is right. For now, this new marriage, new hope, new dream, new life, is there awaiting them.
After a delicious meal at the local casino (right up the road from the house), we went back and fell fast asleep.
Saturday we tried to figure out a way for me to visit with my mom, but my back was too out of whack for a five-hour round-trip drive. This time, I didn’t get to visit her. Thankfully, we will see her in May when she comes for Hayden’s graduation. At the thrift shops Aniko got a few snowmen and elephants. It could seem like they have nothing in common, but truly I understand so much more about this awesome lady, simply by the way we spent our day. Elephants are renowned for their memory (an elephant never forgets), intelligence, and sociality. They represent majesty and wisdom. They inspire balance. The snowman is a symbol that brings joy in festivity and makes the winter season filled with lightheartedness. It is temporary. This year I want to build lots of snowmen.
After going to town, we had a nice meal and bottle of wine to celebrate the next day’s adventures.
When my dad said they were getting married in a homeless church, I wasn’t sure quite what he had in mind. We arrived at the outdoor church and then the park. Both were amazing. The pavilion was great. There were a lot of people there for the regular monthly service that included a meal for the homeless in Madera (this is the church my dad and Aniko attend every week now). It reminded me of the Socks & Sandwiches program Nederland used to have. It reminded me I used to find time to help people that needed a hand up. It reminded me, it’s not too late to get involved somewhere in our community. I think Socks & Sandwiches was the last time I felt like I was making a difference. I think I want that feeling back.
But my mind wanders tonight. Apologies. The service was beautiful and heartfelt. The pastor was very down to earth, yet delivered a powerful message. The wedding was after that. And then as a wedding gift to each other, a picnic lunch was served to all. I don’t think I have ever been to a more unique gathering. I’m so thankful everything fell into place to be able to fly out for this magical experience. I’ll remember it forever (and I took pictures because then I really can remember it for the rest of my life).
Today, I feel so much gratitude for this amazing man, his new wife, my sister and her family that made it down to the wedding. And to the people that surrounded my dad and Aniko as they said “I do.” May life bring many blessings in this next part of your life.
Ok, enough about me. Last week you probably saw a really BIG newspaper with 48 pages of news. With that edition, we have begun our 47th year in the newspaper business. I don’t take that lightly. Every week, we’re here, covering the local news. On page 17, you’ll find a list of QR codes that you can scan to subscribe, advertise, check out our online business directory, participate in our Special Sections (next one is the Holiday Gift Guide), find our community calendar, or simply reach us here at the paper. If you don’t have a phone that can scan a QR code, you can always call us at 303-810-5409 or email info@themountainear.com.
Don’t forget to check out the amazing story of our mural (on page 32) that commemorates Barbara Lawlor. This beautiful wall is dedicated in her honor at the Nederland office (98 W. 1st Street). Our awesome friend and very talented artist, Shae Harrower, created this mural from a photo taken by Barbara Lawlor in 2018.
And, last, a quick reminder that Pet of the Year is now open for submissions. This contest is open to all pet parents in the Peak to Peak who have a current subscription (print or online) with The Mountain-Ear. There is a QR code on page 17, or you can click on the link and enter that way. Here is the link: https:// www.themtnear.com/events/mountainear-pet-of-the-year-2023-submit-photos/
Prizes include gift certificates and items from our sponsors (listed on page 14). The contest is open now until November 17. Voting starts November 23 and closes December 15. Winners are announced in the December 21 edition.
As always, The Mountain-Ear is YOUR community source for news. We welcome your thoughtful letters, stories, phone calls, and emails. We cover the news YOU want to read, in the communities you love. Peak to Peak.
