Huntington, WV

Terry came to the Red Roof Inn (where we had snuck in the night before) and took us back to her house… and to Pastor Tim’s across the street.

We were then shuttled off to a pool party… and BAMM… Huntington UCC became part of my life…

(My new little sister, Mariana... 17 going on super star)

(For those who know my 'glitches'...this pic of standing with a bunch of 'strangers' but still smiling is amazing)

This group.  This amazing group.  Dynamic.  Loving.  Generous.  Open & Affirming.  Beautiful.  TESTED.  Growing…  What other words can I tag to them?  This amazing group…

Pastor Tim’s sermon on Sunday was soul feasting.  Right before key points, he’d clap his hands and kindly shout, “NOW, LISTEN!” and we would.  Everyone would… and not because he told us to, but because he was speaking truth.  It was the sort of reflection that leaves you wondering if he wrote it for you… but you know everyone felt that way.

Marietta introduced me to fried bologna… Huntington introduced me to fried potatoes and brown beans.  I thought I was going to lose weight on this trip… yeah…. Nope!

They gave me the opportunity to share my message.  I got to hear the stories of others who are dealing with mental health issues.  I was honored to hear war stories and victories of veterans.  The post message discussion made me feel a bit more whole.

(Listening after speaking... the best part)

(Love the folks attached to these smiles)

That afternoon I sat on Terry’s couch and caught up on blogging stuff, had veggie soup with Pastor Tim, his Robbie and Punkin (Henry thanked them by having an accident on a beautiful hand painted sign for the church… yup).  I got to hear more about HUCC’s mission for the homeless and hungry, their social justice involvement and ideas for future.  Made me what to stay.

(Robbie puppy wrangling!)

We took off early Monday morning to get me back to the boat (we had left it up river) and do a long, almost 40 mile day… 

(Could your heart break, too?!  It's hard, hard, hard leaving him in the morning)

but the long day was ok, because it ended back in Huntington and with a happy welcome at the marina.

(Henry giving me loves after a long day)

(Hello my cheerleaders!!)

(Selfie with my Sweet One!)

Again Terry hosted me.  The women I’ve had the pleasure to stay with have been enlightened, experienced, beautiful and the perfect dose of instant friend…. Terry continued the standard set by Judy in Marietta.

And then I left that Tuesday morning… and admittedly, it felt like leaving my long time friends behind.

But like with other towns, they have kept in touch… with an awesome vengeance… and through facebook and text messages and motivational videos (you boys…) & posters (Mariana, I adore your face!) they, like all friends I’ve met along the way are right there with me.

(Pastor Tim.  This man... this man... thank you for leading a group of amazing human beings)