North Carolina 2011-09-24

 [This is the first post from our trip diary. I should have one for almost every day we were there]

Lisa's Happy Place

(First full day in NC)

Things I've seen already that you don't find in Tampa:
Apple trees
Rhododendrons
Mullein
Free-range chickens
End-of-season Tomatoes & corn drying on the stalk
Sassafras

Lisa took a walk and needs water. She called for me to take some to her.

Rocko and I headed up the trail, on our way to Lisa's Happy Place. On the way we had to cross a 4-wire electric cow fence. Rocko got a mild jolt and I felt a little buzz before climbing through. But, since I'm only 5'6" and 120 pounds, I didn't have a problem getting through.

We sat on the knoll for a long time, talking and taking pictures and of course smoking for the occasion (we're on vacation, eh).

On the return trip, Rocko was very skittish about the fence; his apprehension was either well-founded or self-fulfilling. He got a jolt and we had to hang around for a few minutes so he could settle down.

Teresa was waiting for us when we got back to the house. Soon we will be heading into town for groceries.

And as I wait for Lisa to get prepared, I sit out at the picnic table with Rocko. Lisa and Ruth have a habit of talking in a rather loud tone, especially with Lisa in the bedroom and Ruth in the living room. It's a bit much for me to take, compared with the peace to be found outdoors.

Real grass. Real soil. Real good.

8:45 pm - Returned from shopping not too long ago. Saw Lisa's niece Havana at the Bi-Lo supermarket. Ruth is watching football and I'm tired. Ate a roast beef sandwich and some fudge; ready for bed, but Lisa won't be happy if I crash too early. Sigh.