Cherished Memories...

I’ve known Bill and his family basically my whole life. I still remember when they moved in next door to us on Knollwood Drive. I was so happy to finally have some kids to play with! My life has been so much richer knowing Bill, Sandie, Molly and Seth; full of learning, laughter, friendship and love. I look back on my childhood with such fond memories, many of them involving the Blackleys.

Halloween was one of my favorite times each year, especially trick-or-treating at the Blackleys. Bill would rent a coffin, get inside it and have the bowl of candy resting on his stomach. Sandie would invite the children in, and one by one, they had to reach into the coffin if they wanted the candy. I’m sure the first time I experienced it, Bill scared the daylights out of me, but it was so much fun watching the other kids scream and run from their house, usually without their candy.

One time, when I was 5 or so, Molly, Seth and I were all in need of a bath, so Bill and Sandie piled all three of us in their tub. Molly and I conspired ways to get Seth, and ultimately Bill captured the “before and after” on film. Before, all three kids smiling (of course my grin and Molly’s grin are mischievous knowing what was coming), after, Seth pouting due to his head being drenched with the bucket of water we poured on him, and us howling with laughter! Ah, the delights of our youth!

As I grew up, I continued to look forward to spending time with Bill and his family. I can’t begin to imagine how long his days were at his practice, but he always had a smile, a laugh and kind words to share with me. I remind myself of that now that I’m a parent, when I start to walk in my door at home still carrying the baggage of my day at work with me. I stop and tell myself how important it is to have that quality time with your family, without the burden of work. Bill showed me that, and I thank him for it.

One last memory I’d like to share is of a fourth of July ten years ago or so. Both of our families ended up going up the mountain to the overlook. There we all stood, watching the fireworks displays in Wilkesboro, Elkin, Pilot Mountain, and other neighboring towns. That alone was amazing, but then God decided to show us His light show. Lightning of all colors lit up the sky below us. Purple, white, blue, orange, pink and yellow zipped across the sky, both vertically and horizontally. It was truly breathtaking and phenomenal, and it reminded me of how blessed I am to have such wonderful friends and family. I will never forget that day, nor will I ever forget how fortunate I am to have Bill and his family as an integral part of my life. He has taught me so much, and the Blackleys have given me so many wonderful memories that I will carry with me forever.

Bill, I wish you all the best as you embark on a new chapter in your life. I look forward to many more treasured memories with you and your family, and thank you for all the joy and happiness you have brought me and my family through the years.