Friday, September 11, 2009

Gone*

Just for the weekend ahead. We'll leave this afternoon, aim east and then, ultimately, south.

Why south? you ask.

Because that's where love is.

And what's love?

Many things, actually, but it's first knowing there's a reason to go. Reason full of excitement and anticipation, and it gives way to need.

It's the journey, driving distant yet familiar roads; those that stretch out before you, and the ones back to your heart, too.

Love is the arrival; pulling up on memory from before, history, well-aware there is more where that came from.

It's the gathering of people you've known your entire life; people whose airs, mannerisms, noses reflect your own. Who have connection through blood, marriage, experience and name. It's hugs, laughter, music, food, reminiscence, games, pictures, stories and tears...

Love.

I sometimes think there's none greater.

So I'll be gone for a family reunion. I know I'll have a special weekend, and I hope you do, too.


*Remembering those lost 9/11/2001.

26 comments:

Donna M. Kohlstrom said...

Have an awesome and safe journey full of blessings!

Wendy Paine Miller said...

Enjoy the conversation and the noses (loved that line.)
~ Wendy

Melanie Hooyenga said...

I'm remembering too.

I'm jealous that you make even a note that you're going away for the weekend sound so lovely.

Have a great trip!

Jeanette Levellie said...

Have a wonderful time, Janna! Be safe.
You won a prize on my blog today. Please pop over to pick it out!
Jen
Audience of ONE

Diane said...

Hope your trip is fun and relaxing. Many times with family it can be tense. Hugs to you. :O)

WendyCinNYC said...

Have a great time, Janna.

Anonymous said...

Enjoy your trip! Hope you have a great time.

-FringeGirl

Jill Kemerer said...

I love your voice. It's so lyrical. Wraps me up like a warm blanket. Have a lovely time with your family!

Janna Leadbetter said...

Thanks, Donna! Have a great weekend.

Wendy - Although, come to think of it, I think my sister's the only one with my nose. ;)

Melanie - I've gotten so deep into my voice, I don't even have to think about it. It's a good thing!

Jen - Wow, awesome! Thanks!

Diane - There may be some intensity if politics come up. ;)

Thanks, Wendy. I hope you have a great weekend, too.

FG - I think we will. Fun all around!

Aw, thank you! I really appreciate your saying so, Jill.

Deb said...

Have a safe and fun filled adventure with your loved ones!

Tana said...

Aww, have fun! That was sweet.

Susan R. Mills said...

Have a great time, Janna! Be safe.

Stephanie Faris said...

Have a great time!

JLC said...

Janna, your posts are getting more and more poetic. This one was beautiful. Have a wonderful time with your loved ones.

Janna Leadbetter said...

Strange Fiction - Thank you, I hope to. :)

Thanks, T. Anne. Happy Birthday!

Lazy Writer - Always! Thanks. :)

Stephanie - Hope you have a good weekend, too.

JLC - Thank you, what a great thing to hear.

septembermom said...

How wonderful Janna! Moments to treasure and remember are about to be made for you. Have a safe trip.

Nadine said...

Sounds like a wonderful weekend!! Have a fabulous time!!

Janna Leadbetter said...

septembermom - Sometimes I think the memories from my childhood reunions can't be beat; I'll never feel that same feeling again. But the good news is, I have daughters of my own now, who can build the same kind of experiences.

Nadine - Happy Weekend! And I will. :)

Karen said...

Ah, the noses are a dead giveaway in my family...

Enjoy relax and make memories.

Tess said...

Fall is a beautiful time for travel ... have fun and may you see many interesting people who might make future novel characters ;)

Jody Hedlund said...

Have a wonderful weekend! I love family reunions!

Capri K @ No Whining Allowed said...

Have a WONDERFUL time!

I am still basking in the afterglow of our family reunion in July. Making plans to get together with some long lost cousins in November!

Praying you there and back.

Janna Leadbetter said...

Thanks for the well wishes and prayers! It was an incredible weekend.

Deb Shucka said...

May you find surprises and more love than you thought possible. Have a great time.

dirtywhitecandy said...

Lovely description - especially the people whose noses reflect your own! You have a great eye for description.

Janna Leadbetter said...

Deb - It was really as wonderful as I'd hoped.

dirtywhitecandy - Thanks so much.