Ten and a half hours and some fifteen hundred miles later, we are back in Gainesville. Great trip, one of the best. We left Lexington about 7 A.M. and right away the GPS decided to hiccup and take us on a five mile trip through the, ...uhh, how can I put this...hmm... let us say "less scenic neighborhoods" of the City. We knew the interstate to be about a half mile in the opposite direction but I said, "Hey, let's see if it (the GPS) knows a route that will pick up the road further South toward Atlanta, it'll be an early morning adventure." Wrong, the damned thing just ran us all over hell's half acre to bring us out further North than we had been.
The trip from Lexington to Knoxville is terraced country. Each mountain plateau and valley seems to be stacked a little higher than the ones below it. This particular Sunday morning the Blue Ridge Mountains lived up to their name. We encountered a lot of early morning clouds, fog and haze. Driving, we climbed through lower lying clouds, when we would temporarily get on top there was only blue sky above with solid layers below. Then we would descend back down through the overcast going through multi layers ranging from almost no visibility to unlimited. Clouds were hanging in the valleys and moving rapidly around and over the hills. Sometimes words fail to adequately describe beauty, this is one of those times. The mountains and waters of this part of our country are one of the last remaining unspoiled areas in the Southeastern United States. As a person who loves the South, it pains me to think of how much similarly beautiful country we have all lost. I hope at least this can be saved for our kids and grandchildren.
All around us the green of the hardwood trees were just beginning to show the color changes of early Autumn. I commented on how much prettier the mountains would be in a few weeks. Imagine, surrounded by all that scenic wonder and yet wishing the trip were three of four weeks later in the year. I hope God can forgive that type of ingratitude. For me, it is an all too often common mistake. In wishing for a different season, different weather, or different whatever, I fail to enjoy today. As I have grown older one of the more important lessons I have tried to learn is to live in the moment, unfortunately I often fail.
On a lighter note there is another side of driving through mountainous terrain. As a flat land living Gator, I am unaccustomed to twisting and turning mountain roads and their associated hazards. During this portion of our trip, "Larry, dammit pay attention" was a common refrain. Often I found myself pointing out such not to be missed attractions as a barn roof painted with a sign encouraging one and all to "See Rock City." Now and then I may have even drifted across the center line of the road toward a rock wall or sheer precipice. Ah yes, there is nothing like a woman screaming or the blast of an air horn from an approaching semi-tractor trailer to snap one back to reality.
The reason for our early departure was the diner we were going to in Atlanta closes at two PM. We came rolling in about one o'clock in the afternoon. The Silver Skillet Diner is about a block off I-75, it is near the world famous Varsity Drive-in and just across the street from the Georgia Tech campus. Walking into the place I knew we had made a good choice. There were a lot of local people. In Atlanta there are tons of choices of places to eat. Most of which are not frequented by native Georgians, particularly diners that primarily serve breakfast. If you grow up in the South, eating a biscuit baked by a Northerner is akin to being water boarded. Jeannie ordered country ham, fried eggs and red eye gravy. I had pork chops, biscuits, cheese grits biscuits and gravy. Damn, damn, damn, it was so good. The place was opened in 1956 by the current owner's Dad . The present owner is named "Teresa" and she was working the cash register. I told her the food was so good that if she would tell me where her father was buried I would drive by and put flowers on his grave. She replied, "just leave a tip son, a big tip." I did.
One other thing and this segment is officially over and done. After getting home I dropped by the local watering hole, Gator Tales. Corey Viley was sitting at the bar and we swapped stories about our respective weekends. Hands down, Corey won. It seems he had been fishing with the local bass club. They had all packed up and went to Astoria, Florida. After a good day on the lake, they retired to a local sports bar to watch the Gator football game. Corey said that all of the Bass Club members were sitting to his left and to his right were several local fellows who were not real football fans. After Florida scored the first time, Corey paid for drinks for everyone including the six or so locals who did not follow football. He said they all came over shook his hand and told him thank you. Corey said that he said "look guys, every time Florida scores I am buying you a round of drinks". They all cheered and thanked him. At the end of the first quarter the score was 34-0 Florida. Corey said after that many drinks, every single local was now an avid Gator convert and every time a Florida player carried the ball they were on their feet yelling "Run you sumbitch run!" Corey thought, Hell, thirty four points in the first quarter! maybe Florida will score a hundred and the locals were praying the Gators would. Some stories just can't be improved on. You just gotta love it.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Blue Moon of Kentucky Just keep on Shining
Tonight the moon of Kentucky was shining on a Gator victory. We were up 34 - 0 at the end of the first quarter. That is always good news but tonight even more so because the four Wildcat fans sitting next to us left in disgust. So for three quarters we had plenty of room to bedevil all of the remaining Kentucky fans. Not really, not anymore...Southeastern Conference fans have always treated us well and have welcomed us as visitors. Kentucky football fans are some of the nicest we have met. Now their basketball fans, that is a different kettle of fish. They consider themselves the gentry of college basketball and conduct themselves as Lords and Masters of the B-ball universe. Gator fans would never be arrogant right? OK, maybe a little. I seem to remember a tee shirt that I own that proudly proclaims, "Florida Gators, King of College Sports".
I do not recall a Gator victory where I have had more mixed feelings. We won, that's great but the hit on Tebow was so damned scary. Although Tim Tebow was hit directly in front of where we were sitting, most of you, who were watching on television, probably know more about the injury than we do. A blitzing player hit him full speed and he immediately collapsed. I have seen him take similar licks and pop right up but this time he did not move an inch. There was some cheering by Kentucky fans but then all but a few dumb asses quickly understood the possible seriousness of the moment. The entire stadium of 71,000 fell eerily silent. When he was finally helped to his feet, ninety-nine percent of the fans stood and applauded. After the game, I heard the interview with the Gator head coach, Urban Meyer, and he seemed to think Tim had suffered a concussion. For me Tim Tebow is the epitome of what is best about our youth and I know we all wish him a quick and complete recovery. I was reminded anew that football is just a game and it is absolutely nothing compared to a young man' health and well being.
We leave for home in the morning. we are stopping at the "Silver Skillet" in downtown Atlanta. According to "Diners, Drive-in's and Dives" for almost sixty years they haveserved the best breakfast in all of the South (and if it is the best in the South that means the best in the whole damned world). Country ham, red eye gravy, cheese grits, home made biscuits and scrambled eggs. Man they'll have to roll me out of there. Go on line and check it out, even the menu will make you hungry. See ya.
I do not recall a Gator victory where I have had more mixed feelings. We won, that's great but the hit on Tebow was so damned scary. Although Tim Tebow was hit directly in front of where we were sitting, most of you, who were watching on television, probably know more about the injury than we do. A blitzing player hit him full speed and he immediately collapsed. I have seen him take similar licks and pop right up but this time he did not move an inch. There was some cheering by Kentucky fans but then all but a few dumb asses quickly understood the possible seriousness of the moment. The entire stadium of 71,000 fell eerily silent. When he was finally helped to his feet, ninety-nine percent of the fans stood and applauded. After the game, I heard the interview with the Gator head coach, Urban Meyer, and he seemed to think Tim had suffered a concussion. For me Tim Tebow is the epitome of what is best about our youth and I know we all wish him a quick and complete recovery. I was reminded anew that football is just a game and it is absolutely nothing compared to a young man' health and well being.
We leave for home in the morning. we are stopping at the "Silver Skillet" in downtown Atlanta. According to "Diners, Drive-in's and Dives" for almost sixty years they haveserved the best breakfast in all of the South (and if it is the best in the South that means the best in the whole damned world). Country ham, red eye gravy, cheese grits, home made biscuits and scrambled eggs. Man they'll have to roll me out of there. Go on line and check it out, even the menu will make you hungry. See ya.
The Orange and Blue "Kentucky Rain"
"The Kentucky rain keeps pouring down and up ahead's another football town.....and a game we'll sit thru......with the rain in our shoes....in the cold Kentucky rain."
My apologies to Ronnie Milsap and Elvis Presley. (The original song was written by Eddie Rabbitt)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWDn2B-b7qQ
For me every football Saturday is about the same. A feeling of anticipation and dread, so much of my emotional well being on the line and all entrusted to a team comprised of 18 and 19 year old kids. I really believe when the Gators throw an interception, fumble or make some other grievous error, they do it to cause dismay to the person sitting in Section four, Row 23, Seat 21...that would be me.
For 15 years I went to every Gator game with a wonderful friend. Tragically he has passed away, but he always, on every single play, expected Florida to score. I, on the other hand, always anticipated a fumble or worse. Once we were driving to Gainesville from South Florida. We were playing Auburn and the War Eagles were undefeated and ranked fourth in the country. Our Gators had already lost three games. About seventy five miles South of Gainesville, my friend asked me for a prediction on the score. I replied that I thought Auburn would beat us about 45 to 7. Without a word, he pulled off the Turnpike and opened the car door. "Get the hell out!" he said. "What is wrong with you?" I asked. He replied, "I cannot take it anymore, 15 years I have tolerated you and your pessimism, just get the hell out of my car."
Eventually he relented andwe continued to Gainesville. A few years later, I told the story at his funeral. Larry Evan Vanscoy was a great Florida Gator fan and a wonderful human being and friend.
My apologies to Ronnie Milsap and Elvis Presley. (The original song was written by Eddie Rabbitt)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWDn2B-b7qQ
For me every football Saturday is about the same. A feeling of anticipation and dread, so much of my emotional well being on the line and all entrusted to a team comprised of 18 and 19 year old kids. I really believe when the Gators throw an interception, fumble or make some other grievous error, they do it to cause dismay to the person sitting in Section four, Row 23, Seat 21...that would be me.
For 15 years I went to every Gator game with a wonderful friend. Tragically he has passed away, but he always, on every single play, expected Florida to score. I, on the other hand, always anticipated a fumble or worse. Once we were driving to Gainesville from South Florida. We were playing Auburn and the War Eagles were undefeated and ranked fourth in the country. Our Gators had already lost three games. About seventy five miles South of Gainesville, my friend asked me for a prediction on the score. I replied that I thought Auburn would beat us about 45 to 7. Without a word, he pulled off the Turnpike and opened the car door. "Get the hell out!" he said. "What is wrong with you?" I asked. He replied, "I cannot take it anymore, 15 years I have tolerated you and your pessimism, just get the hell out of my car."
Eventually he relented andwe continued to Gainesville. A few years later, I told the story at his funeral. Larry Evan Vanscoy was a great Florida Gator fan and a wonderful human being and friend.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Omens and such
It was early morning and the orange sun rose over I-75 north of Atlanta. The north Georgia mountains tops were still shrouded in a beautiful blue mist. The orange sun and blue mist gave me renewed confidence that the Deity was sending me a heavenly sign that Florida was going to emerge victorious. My hopes were confirmed when I heard a voice saying Larry, Larry! Was God speaking to me directly? Was this my road to Damascus experience? Alarmingly, the voice was that of a female! I thought, Oh my, this may not be good! Finally, I recognized the voice. Jeannie repeated "Larry, here is your coffee, now get up, the hotel staff is closing the breakfast bar in fifteen minutes." Sleepily, I said "You are not God?" She replied, "If you're not outta that bed if five minutes you are gonna think I am." And that, dear friends, is how my day started.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Atlanta
The good news is we made Atlanta with no difficulties other than the usual run of the mill traffic hell that is the 24/7 rule here. The bad news is Lexington is expecting thunderstorms throughout the day tomorrow and has posted flash flood warnings for the entire area.
Coming up here I wasn't driving until we got just outside the metro Atlanta area. I was tired (hey, this retirement stuff ain't easy) I tried to sleep but every time a big truck passed the car, unfailingly the wind from the truck moved the car and I was jolted awake sure that my death was imminent. Strange how that works, you are about half asleep and just about to doze off, suddenly the car makes an unexpected movement and an instant adrenalin fueled state of momentary panic occurs. No, I don't think it has to do with me a control freak who is uncomfortable with someone else driving. Please note; I didn't say a woman driving, I said someone other than me. although I admit some drivers scare me more than others.
I am told that I tend to complain (bitch) a bit. I disagree but I have been challenged to find something good to write about. Hmm, the suite is nice, because of my frequent guest points we were upgraded and the entire bill is complimentary. That is all good, however when I think of the money I have spent on hotel rooms, they should throw me an occasional bone. Oops, I think that qualifies as being somewhat negative (bitching again) OK, I got it, I promise, I finally understand and tomorrow I will be entirely positive. Maybe.
Coming up here I wasn't driving until we got just outside the metro Atlanta area. I was tired (hey, this retirement stuff ain't easy) I tried to sleep but every time a big truck passed the car, unfailingly the wind from the truck moved the car and I was jolted awake sure that my death was imminent. Strange how that works, you are about half asleep and just about to doze off, suddenly the car makes an unexpected movement and an instant adrenalin fueled state of momentary panic occurs. No, I don't think it has to do with me a control freak who is uncomfortable with someone else driving. Please note; I didn't say a woman driving, I said someone other than me. although I admit some drivers scare me more than others.
I am told that I tend to complain (bitch) a bit. I disagree but I have been challenged to find something good to write about. Hmm, the suite is nice, because of my frequent guest points we were upgraded and the entire bill is complimentary. That is all good, however when I think of the money I have spent on hotel rooms, they should throw me an occasional bone. Oops, I think that qualifies as being somewhat negative (bitching again) OK, I got it, I promise, I finally understand and tomorrow I will be entirely positive. Maybe.
First Road Game
I think most of us have clmbed down from the ledges and cooler heads have prevailed. Long time Gator fans know that any victory over a SEC East opponent is something to be treasured. Lane Kiffin ran his mouth and most of us wanted to see him embarrassed. Trust me, he will be just give him time. He has no ties to Tennessee or to SEC football, he has no record of accomplishment to carry him thru rough years and the Volunteers will not be satisfied with "moral victories" that are in reality.... just plain losses. He has won exactly one game and lost two, he will get Ohio this week, then ...look out...the big boys are coming and they ain't happy.
Enough about that braying jackass.
It is time for Kentucky. This evening we are heading out to Atlanta and the floods, just in case you forgot I have a Honda, not an ark. In calling around I have been told the water is receding and the dove I sent out came back with a twig, so we are going to try I-75. Tomorrow morning we are going to the Marietta Diner. This is another place visited and recommended by "Diners Drive-Ins and Dives." I will get back to you on what we think of the culinary experience. Damn, I like saying that. Culinary experience? Yep, got a nice sound to it. Does writing have sounds? It does in my head, but hey, a lot of strange things make noises in my head.
We intend to be in Lexington sometimes Friday afternoon. In the evening we are going to the Gator gathering. Saturday, we are going over to Louisville and visit some horse farms, maybe even go to Churchhill Downs. We will see how much time we have. The game is at six. I am excited about seeing them under the lights and in front of a hostile crowd. By game time I will be fired up and ready. Tune in for update
Enough about that braying jackass.
It is time for Kentucky. This evening we are heading out to Atlanta and the floods, just in case you forgot I have a Honda, not an ark. In calling around I have been told the water is receding and the dove I sent out came back with a twig, so we are going to try I-75. Tomorrow morning we are going to the Marietta Diner. This is another place visited and recommended by "Diners Drive-Ins and Dives." I will get back to you on what we think of the culinary experience. Damn, I like saying that. Culinary experience? Yep, got a nice sound to it. Does writing have sounds? It does in my head, but hey, a lot of strange things make noises in my head.
We intend to be in Lexington sometimes Friday afternoon. In the evening we are going to the Gator gathering. Saturday, we are going over to Louisville and visit some horse farms, maybe even go to Churchhill Downs. We will see how much time we have. The game is at six. I am excited about seeing them under the lights and in front of a hostile crowd. By game time I will be fired up and ready. Tune in for update
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)