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TheTime COIN
Camille Anding
Othel and I went for a walk this morning.
It’s a blessed part of retirement.
We can choose our morning times without the interference of work schedules – and morning times are my
favorite. My body feels more “recharged” than in the evening walks, and the brisk, spring air is easy to breathe.
I’ve never had the luxury of walking through neighborhoods. If I walked in Etta, I descended and ascended
our mini Mt. Rushmore hilltop or walked out the “back 40” which was less challenging but on a dirt road
and into more woods. I loved our wooded, rural paths but paved neighborhoods are more suited to retirement
age.
I enjoy viewing the variety of homes and yards. We pass homes without tree swings or basketball goals in the
driveway. The lawns are neat – no ruts or worn home plate sports. The little ones have most likely left the nest,
and the home remains but never will be quite the same.
A few yards stand out as unkempt. The weeds are springing up and out of the flower beds, and the shrubs
are growing with no intimidation of shears or clippers. Could be time and health have left their marks on the
homeowners. Death could have robbed the home and left Loneliness to share the half-empty house along with
a yard that doesn’t seem to matter anymore.
Some homes have indoor watch dogs that alert their owners to strangers near their homes. Lots of homes
have barking security systems in their backyards. I’m grateful that leash laws are enforced in our neighborhoods!
I’m a walker – not a runner!
I enjoy the homes where Green Thumbs live. Flowers around homes always cause me to slow down and
enjoy the beauty and appreciate the many varieties God has created. Spring is flowers’ happy time in the south,
and this season makes for comfortable walks as well as a lot of blooming joy.
Some carports house cars with overflow vehicles in their driveways. Most likely,
it’s a sign of teenagers or multiple family members. Either way it’s a sign that extra
prayers are needed. I’m grateful God hears prayers for strangers, too.
There’s usually an occasional “For Sale” or realtor sign in a yard – regardless of our
walking route. My mind conjures up possible reasons – a job change or promotion,
retirement to another home closer to relatives, heartaches due to life’s trials and
tribulations, or growing families in need of more space.
Today’s walk only led us one and a half miles – not a true calorie burner but enough time and sights to remind
me that a home is a wonderful blessing – especially in our neighborhood. We didn’t hear any exploding bombs
or sporadic artillery fire. Protestors weren’t crowding any of the streets, and we didn’t hear the first siren. No
armed militia stood at any corner, and we didn’t see any yellow tape fixed to a dwelling or yard. Home – peaceful,
safe homes – they make for happy walks and another reminder of how grateful we should be.
82 • APRIL 2024