Saturday, October 24, 2009

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

What a beautiful drive to Augusta. We drove through the Cherokee National Forest.





We stayed at Flynn’s Inn Campground and had the best BBQ at Smokin Joe’s. A small eatery right next door.





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We spent a wonderful three days in Augusta visiting with family and friends. We got together Friday at my brother John and Delores' house to visit with them and their families. Adam, Amy, Ann, Ross and Ryan, Holly, and Noah were there along with John Arthur. We enjoyed updating our lives and sharing a dinner of country fried steak, potatoes, beans, and salad. And of course sweet tea. Here is a picture of Adam, John and Ryan.



On Saturday we met along the Savanna River in downtown Augusta for the ALS walk-a-thon. The “DeLores and Dream Weaver Team” of about 40 walkers were all ready to go even though it was drizzling rain. The Dream Weavers were walking in support of Delores, who is battling this terrible illness. They were led by Holly Weaver who did an outstanding job of organizing the team and raising over $16,000 for the cause. The Dream Weavers raised the most money in the event!





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After the walk, we moved to John and Delores' house for a cookout. The skies cleared, and we enjoyed a beautiful sunny day visiting with old friends and making many new friends. Delores was able to visit most of the day with friends outside on their beautiful patio. Yes, flowers are still blooming here in GA. DeLores collects frogs. These are around the beautiful fountain.





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Here is a picture of Paul and John at the beginning of the cookout and then one about two hours in.





Brother John then came over to see our new home (the motor home), and we began preparations for leaving in the morning. Our goal is to get past Atlanta early in the day and avoid the famous traffic jams. The locals assured us that leaving on Sunday was a great idea and should provide us with a smooth trip through Atlanta.
Our next stop is the Escapees park in Summerdale, Alabama. It is located on the gulf coast, and we hope to spend two or three days there relaxing before heading toward Texas.