A few months ago, I would've never thought that this is what would consume my evenings, but I am so thankful that it has worked out this way (minus the lifetime movies).
Mr Ray and Mrs Joyce Edwards were members of the church I attended when I grew up in Jasper, FL. . . a similar small town in the middle of nowhere with one stop light, and no grocery store. They baby-sat me and my younger sister when we were kids, and when I heard they were in the area and I was pretty much desperate for a place to stay that I could handle I thought "there's nothing to loose." So 10 days before I had to move in, I contacted them, and they were generous enough to offer me a room in their home to stay.
They live 45 minutes away and I have to go through toll roads to get to work, but this is worth it for the wonderful friendship I've gained in the Edwards.
You have to know that this couple is in their early 70s, and that they have a passionate love for live which filters its way in practical jokes and great stories. They used to t-pee our yard on my parents birthday's . . with pink flamingo's and all kinds of tacky yard-art. And they still do that kind of thing to their friends. They laugh with each other about all kinds of things, and I'm constantly laughing with them. I don't think they realize how funny they are and that makes things all the more funny.
They love each other. I'm going to keep this from being all emotional and all, but I got to hear their story and here are the major points. They met at 18 and 19, married at 20 and 21, and had 2 kids by the time they were 23. They didn't have a lot of money and had to work hard for a lot of things. They are country people and have their hearts filled with genuine kindness. When they look at each other and laugh and re-tell the stories of the life they have built together...oh man, even for a non-romantic like myself (psh, who am I kidding) that is just beautiful to be witness to.
They have also taught me a lot: for example, the difference between a cream can and a milk can...one is half a big because of the weight of the liquid. And general cow care...I'm a slow learner of farm life, but I'm appreciating my well-rounded education.
So not only have they provided me a home, they have provided me company and food! Despite my stubborn trying to take care of myself, Mrs. Joyce has a homemade meal ready for me when I get home from work. We all sit down at a table and talk about our day...a real old fashion meal.
I love that, and I love not getting on my computer very much during the evenings, and instead spending an hour visiting before my early retirement. They have schedules and systems and I love that too, but above all they have provided a place where I can relax and break away from work and stress and that was much needed.
I love these people, and I wish I had time to share more of their stories and specifics..because I'm serious when I say they could have their own sitcom.
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