Author: Easin' Along

Throughout the day on Monday, the weather people on television said that we could expect nothing more than a dusting or a trace of snow on Monday night. Helen and I had a dinner party for 15 family members in the works that evening and gave little thought to the weather. I ran a few errands to pick up some things for party prep and noticed a flake or two falling on the Walmart parking lot…no big deal.

East Tennesseans used to pay attention to snowfall forecasts when we had snow, but over the last decade or so, accumulating snow was only a memory of snow-soaked boys, sled runs, and snow forts. Now that I no longer work for a living, I love snow. If I had a full pantry, a big fireplace, a good book, and a little music, I would trade places with the folks in Buffalo in a New York minute.

Around four in the afternoon, the tiny flakes picked up some intensity, and by five, we had our “dusting.” The flakes continued to fall. At five-thirty, the first of our guests arrived. They were somewhat concerned. Driving the hills of East Tennessee can be treacherous, with even the smallest amount of snow on the roads. At six, Helen’s sister called to say they were turning around for home—things were getting worse. The remainder of our guests also decided it was time for them to leave. Then, it was just Helen and me with enough seafood gumbo to feed a small Army.

So, after two bowls of hot gumbo over rice, a good glass of wine, a fire in the fireplace, and one movie, we had enough snow on the ground to say we had a “snow event.” Even the forecasters were surprised and hastily noted that temperatures would rise into the 60s by week’s end. So what, I say.  Let’s live in the moment. By morning, the roads were covered, and everything looked so pretty, dressed in white. 

Did I mention that I love snow?

For more years than I can remember, members of our church have collected and delivered Christmas gifts to families in the Appalachian community of Rose’s Creek. The community once enjoyed better times but has struggled mightily since the coal industry’s demise decades earlier. This year we adopted 21 very deserving families—most with children, although Helen and I adopted a childless couple this year.

Each family completes a wish list with help and guidance from the director of the Rose’s Creek Community Center. The lists are sent to the chairman of a committee in our church and distributed to volunteer shoppers. Our family wanted clothing and books. We also donated food items for the Giving Pantry at the center.   

Last Saturday, the volunteers gathered at our church to load the gifts for the drive northward into the Appalachians.  The drive takes us up and over two mountaintops along a narrow, winding road; thankfully, we would begin the journey on a beautiful day. Once all the vehicles were filled, one of our ministers led us in prayer, and off we went. Jennifer, the committee chairman, asked if I would lead the convoy. I eagerly accepted (if I worked on a garbage truck, I would want to be the driver).

Once on the road, the trip takes about two hours, with one stop to re-organize before the trip’s final leg. One of our volunteers missed the exit off I-75 and had to drive 10 miles into Kentucky for the next exit. Soon, however, we were together again, and the convoy arrived at the center to begin unloading the gifts.

Within thirty minutes or so, we filled the meeting room with pretty packages offering cheerful joy wrapped in ribbons, bows, and fancy paper. We’re told that the families will come to the center later in the week for a Christmas party and gift distribution. I would love to see the smiles all around.  The Community Center staff offered us freshly baked cookies, hot chocolate, and coffee. The coffee was delicious—the cookies are not on Nutrisystem, so I passed, but I heard they were delightful.

As we gathered for a group picture, a Mama dog welcomed us to the neighborhood.  She appeared to be searching out food for the family, and I wished I had a gift for her and her pups.  I didn’t, but I gave her a pack of peanut butter crackers I had in my truck.  They disappeared quickly.

With the mission complete, we made our way back over the mountain. An old saying is so true….” it’s more blessed to give.” We’re blessed, and we’re Easin’ Along.

Wreaths Across America volunteers placed Christmas Wreaths alongside the headstones in our local Veteran’s Cemetary. I walked through there today. It’s a solemn place. The decorations are beautiful and a fitting tribute to these brave Americans who sacrificed so much for our country. In this time of celebration, we should remember that freedom is not a gift–it’s earned.