Monday, July 18, 2011

the conga line

once a year, my family vacations on the coast. at my great aunt's house, with the overstuffed couches that you just sink into, the big long wooden dinner table and the hundreds of movies. it's a treat, really. one that we look forward to all year.

robert and i headed down a night early and soaked up a little adventure before we met my parents. we spent a balmy afternoon strolling around historic new bern, n.c. beautiful, brick storefronts. a glistening river. we could see why nicholas sparks lives here. the place is a novel.

on the way back to our car, we walked past a little catholic church. the oldest one in the state, according to the bronze plaque. and we stopped. just across the street, a little crowd was gathered. we stood behind the trees as a beautiful bride waltzed out the old doors. we watched in silence (and attempted anonymity) as she ran into the arms of her new husband, greeted him with a kiss saved for newlyweds (that second kiss where no one is supposed to be looking), and drove off in a horse drawn carriage.

and as the clamor died down, we slipped on. and i was reminded that we're all on little adventures. whether its a detour on the way to the beach, or teetering on the cusp of life changing jumps, we're traveling. all traveling. and when we travel together, when those moments of momentum intersect and serendipitously we become spectators in the sojourns of one another, that's pure magic. and the earth bursts at the seam with happiness as we join dancing under the heavenly ceiling, changing partners with the tempo and moving together in this beautiful conga line called life.

12 comments:

Dee Paulino said...

as a child, I always heard adults comment "life is a roller coaster ride." I never understood what they said, maybe because I hadn't lived enough. As an adult, I am able to say that with it's ups and downs its the greatest adventure of all.

Tina said...

that's beautiful and so, so true.

Brandi said...

That's such a beautiful moment to share. And I love the idea that life is like a conga line. Kinda reminds you of how important it is to celebrate all the beauty around us.

Unknown said...

It all sounds and looks absolutely dreamy!

Jennifer Rod said...

you've given me a treat here. when i read the title i thought you and robert went out dancing, but i got more than that. every photo is beautiful. and i do love the last line....

Gentri said...

I want to go!! Amazing photos!

Eleanor at Mirror Of My World said...

ok. wow. your writing is incredible. i know i always tell you this but its so powerful and beautiful and stunning that i cant wait to read your blog.!! i may actually have to start writing down some of your quotes so i can keep them. i have a quote book from my favourite novellists and yours are fast becoming a favourite. keep smiling xo

Haley said...

loved the photos from your trip! gorgeous brick buildings, sailboats, pepsi-cola tiffany lamps, and a cute girl in front of a shaved ice stand ;) that's what good posts are made of! :)

but beyond your lovely photos, I adored that you shared your experience of watching the newly wed couple sneak a kiss...and YES, we are all traveling at different rates and to different places. life is wonderful. and you are one inspiring writer :)

honey my heart said...

looks like a great trip with lots to see :) yay family!

Unknown said...

Wonderful Pictures, Courtney. I hope one day I get to see New Bern, too, I love his books.
Sounds like you had an awesome weekend, Love :)

Amy @ AGirlCalledBeloved said...

what a wonderful moment to witness!
it kind of it like a conga line.
a neat thought.

Popcorn, Pugs & Peonies said...

Beautiful pictures and beautiful sentiments.

*Erin

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