Things That Make Me Smile: Part Two

I am presently writing about the things that make me smile while carpooling to and from the kids' school. If you missed Part One, it can be found HERE. Now on to Part Two.

This is Black Farm Road.

Black Farm Road is a very picturesque country lane that goes past equestrian stables and a dairy farm. I love how the trees canopy the road in the summer. In the fall, the riot of colors are stunning. This is one of my favorite country roads. Remember my cow photo from a previous post?

  

They call Black's Dairy Farm home. 

On Ramah Church Road we find Ramah Presbyterian Church. 

I love the simplicity of the architecture of this house of worship.

The original church was a log cabin built in the 1801

 

Across the street is the church cemetery with tombstones so old that the many of the names and dates have been weathered bare. It's a peaceful spot and I do enjoy looking at the old grave markers.  

Yesterday, I tried to photograph the pygmy goats that live down the road from our neighborhood entrance. But, alas, they were hiding from me. That windmill is pretty cool, though, don't you think? 

Here is a photo that I took a couple of years ago. So cute, don't you think? Who wouldn't smile upon those critters? I just love, love, love the pygmy goats!

And who could resist a smile as you pass the nearest roadside farmer's market?

Not I, that's for sure. So tempting they are that I had to actually stop and shop. At these roadside stands you select your produce and pay using the honor system. See that plastic container by the scale...that's where you place your money. Nothing locked. Nothing nailed down. Perfect example of faith and trust. Gotta love it. I think I'll have some fresh tomatoes with home grown basil on pasta drizzled with olive oil and a bit of minced garlic for lunch. Mmmmmmm. Can't wait. 

And at the entrance to my neighborhood, my favorite Canadian friend stands guard. Several years ago he was struck and injured by a passing motorist and lost the use of his leg. He hobbled around, as best he could, for a few days. At that point he became weak enough so that a local veterinarian was able to capture him. The vet brought the goose into his clinic and began the work of saving this creature of God. His wounds were cleaned and I'm sure antibiotics were administered to take care of any infection. This proud gander, and his bride, return every spring to nest at our entry ponds. I smile whenever I see him for his life is the result of the goodness and kindness of others who had no expectations of anything in return.  

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As you can see, carpool is really a time of reflection on the beauty found in the simple things of life. I mentioned this yesterday but feel the need to repeat myself: 

Isn't it amazing, the things you see, if you but take a look?

I am grateful that I was able to pay attention to my small corner of the world, sharing my photos and thoughts with you.  Have a terrific Tuesday!

Things That Make Me Smile: Part One

I know I complain about carpool quite often. I haven't done it as much here as on Facebook. I need to stop that. Grumbling about something over which I have no control does me (and others) no good.


I am trying to adopt an attitude of gratitude. I am grateful that I do have a car and can still afford the gas. So instead of whining I have decided to show you (in a series of photos and posts) the things that make me smile along my drive to and from the kids’ school. Enjoy.

My stereo is preset to 91.7 WSGE: a wonderful eclectic blend of music from a local college radio station. It sure makes my carpool trek enjoyable. And to think I used to listen to loud mouthed talk radio fear mongers! What a waste of time...life's too short to live in a constant state of anxiety. 

This is whom I have dubbed "The Walking Man" of Davidson. I see this gentleman every morning. His slow, halting, yet determined gait is what has me mesmerized. For if you look closely, this man has obviously suffered a stroke: he has lost use of his left hand and walking appears difficult at best. Regardless, come rain or come shine, you can find him on his daily jaunt. He gives me inspiration and hope that, no matter how daunting one's circumstances may be, with faith, courage, persistence, and resolve, one can overcome almost any obstacle placed in our life's path.  

The quaint college town of Davidson, NC always makes me sigh as I pass through it. I love the old store fronts and re-purposed buildings. 

The old train depot, of Davidson, is now a senior center. All of the tiny towns around here have little depots. Very cute. 

And of course, you cannot leave out Davidson College. The campus is gorgeous throughout with tree-lined walkways and beautiful old architecture. I believe the college was founded in 1837.  It is always a pleasure to drive by this renowned school. We are very fortunate that Munchie's swim team practices are here, at the college pool, as it affords us more opportunities to enjoy the charming campus. 

Driving through Cornelius, NC,  this is the sight that greets daily commuters. This gentleman is known to many as simply, "The Waving Man". He never fails to put a smile on my face. He spends his mornings and afternoons, during rush hour, waving to passers by from his simple stoop. We have waved to him every single time we have had the opportunity to drive past his humble home. 

For 12 1/2 years  Munchie Boy has known this man as his "friend", for my mantra, to him, has always been "Wave to your friend!"  Munch has now been waving to this man all of his life!

The Waving Man has a sense of humor, too. At Halloween, there is a skeleton that sits along beside him, with his arm rigged, so that it, too, can wave right along.  

I finally took the opportunity, just this morning, to get out of my car and introduce myself to The Waving Man. I wanted to let him know how his simple gesture has left an indelible mark upon our lives. I can be in the foulest of moods but just an unassuming, enthusiastic wave of his hand can turn my mood 180 degrees around. We should never be afraid to let people, strangers even, know how their simple gestures truly impact our lives. 

I am so pleased that I had the courage to do this. I found out this man's name is Mike (I will not post his last name as I do not have permission to do so) and he grew up locally in the days when the area was mostly pasture and farmland. He has a vast wealth of knowledge on local history. He was very gracious and invited me to join him on his stoop. I truly wish I had the time to do so. I think I just may have to drop in for another visit when I am able sit a spell. 

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Isn't it amazing, the things you see, if you but take a look?

Stay tuned for "Things that Make Me Smile: Part Two"