This is day two of Summer Camp eggmountain, and I'm still in flip flops. I note this because it's a huge accomplishment considering my aversion to toes, especially my own little stubby specimens. I also find it disconcerting to have something foreign trying to keep my big toes from the others - it's as though the big guys are being punished for a crime they didn't commit. But here I am, lounging in flip-flops and contemplating how long I'm going to attempt to be productive before I jump in the pool.
Work on the garage has picked back up after a brief recess, which is encouraging because our time here in Sequoyah Hills is coming to a close. Ethiel's grandfather, Conway, moved his family here in the 1960s; three generations have now called this place home. Since his passing last summer, the estate has slowly been dismantled and divided, and soon the "For Sale" sign will be staked in the front yard.
Four years ago, Conway built the pool house, our current residence, behind the main house and adjacent to the pool. Then he was strong, active, and energetic - this pool house was a "just in case." If he ever became too frail to care for himself, help would be steps away in the main house. It was impossible to imagine then that within three short years he would be gone. He was kind, generous, and always good for a laugh. Everyone knew him, and everyone called him Conway, even his grandchildren.
When Eth and I would visit from Athens, Conway would always ask if we would consider settling in Knoxville. At that point in my life I could have never imagined leaving Athens. But, here we are, living in his pool house and still benefiting from his generosity.
I like to think that Conway is pleased to know we took him up on his offer.
