Twelve years ago while Jack and I was sitting in our rig in Lexington KY, we spotted an RV exactly like ours. Because they only made this model for four years, we rarely see it. When I spotted it driving to the dump area and pointed it out to Jack, he took off running after it! He ran up to the driver and knocked on his window and announced to him that our coaches were just alike! They talked for a few minutes and the driver shared that he wasn't leaving, but was going to visit a friend and would be back later and to stop by his spot. We did, and everyone introduced themselves. We all sat around and talked until 1am. That was the beginning of a long and deep friendship with Deb and Rich.
Over the years we have gone camping together, visited them in their home in Denver several times, getting to know all of their family and kept in close contact. Rich served in the Army in his youth, and like so many young men, got in contact with Agent Orange. As with others, it invaded his body, slowly but surly and we lost him a few weeks ago, breaking all our hearts. He was a terrific person in every way.
When we made plans for this trip, there was no doubt that it needed to include Colorado, to see Deb and to be able to giver her a real hug in person. We had been in touch all through those last days on the phone, but of course, that's not the same.
As per her usual style, she picked the most unique place for us to enjoy the day together and have lunch - a place we hadn't been before (how could that be? They had shown us so many places in Colorado before!) It was in a small town called Castle Rock and in a small church turned into an incredible Italian restaurant called Scileppi's at The Old Stone Church. Family owned and operated for several generations, and you could smell the garlic before you even opened the door! Yum! They are in the middle of adding to it, with an addition to the side for more "pizza space" (they need it) and have added tables out in front as well.
Deb and I split our meal (lasagna and salad) and we still have a ton left over for a whole other meal for tomorrow! Jack's meal has enough left over for two more meals! All so very good!
Afterward, we walked all around town and into the few shops they had, but in all honesty they had more restaurants than shops! We really lucked out on the weather, especially for Colorado, as you can never tell here if it is going to be cold, warm or rain from hour to hour! It remained nice and warm, yea.
All to soon our time together was over, and tear full hugs were passed around. I reminded her that flights do come to Arizona, but I know she has much to adjust to and needs time to heal. But we will hold her in our hearts and know that one day we will all be together again, here or there, as this friendship will continue on...
...on the road in Colorado, Marie
No comments:
Post a Comment