In The Grotto

Yep.

That’s me.

I’d show you the entire article but, it mentions my childhood address and seeing how Dad and Bro still live in that awesome house, well, ya know … paparazzi …

This gazillion-year-old news clip also states that I am the daughter of Mrs. Halton. Singular. No Mister. And I’ve always found that tidbit quite comical given the fact that it was my mama who kinda, sorta, technically wrote the essay that won this contest that placed me in the newspaper.

!! But !! I can honest to goodness claim I penned it …

See ?? My handwriting !!

& the reason I mention our super accomplishment today of all days ??

Because I haven’t really thought about that Carmelite Shrine since way back then and it sure beats me as to why ?!!? because Mom LOVED that place !! It was her consistent, excitable, go-to when company visited or on a nothing to do, boring Sunday.

!!! Let’s go to the Shrine !!!

But me ?? oh, I’ve zipped right pass that landmark sooooooo many times. I’ve glanced, I’ve whispered I REALLY SHOULD and then I continue with the busyness of life.

Funny thing though, like a simple, steady drumbeat, gently, easily Go to the grotto. Go to the grotto. Grotto … Grotto … Grotto …  has been tapping through my brain for a long while now and last Saturday after Dad, Bro and I placed flowers at her grave-site I told my father that his wife has been extremely persistent in her quest to get me there.

“Well ok !” he chuckled and off we trotted to the Grotto.

& wow.

WoW

I had forgotten about the towering trees, the silence, the comfort, the beauty and absolute sacredness that adorn that peaceful space. And I’d say the 6th grade me came rushing back but, no, no way. That too young to understand girl could not and would not be able to appreciate such perfectness.

But, my mama knew. My mama knows and yes Mom, I promise I’ll return to the quiet of that priceless shrine now that I see what you discovered so long ago. I will smile when I think about our “Favorite Thing To See In Indiana” contest and I will remind myself again and again that it was you. You were, you are my kindled spirit, the believer of dreams, that hopeful writer.

I am simply continuing what you began.

♥

Oh Yes I Can