The Comeback...

Of all the things that could make a comeback, I think it is the jelly shoes for me.  I picked myself up a pair just today for less than $4, and I feel a sense of joy.

A lot of what I write about are special memories I had growing up. Now, more than ever, after sitting with my father-in-law for a few weeks following a stroke that damaged the language portion of his brain, I feel the need to communicate and write even more than I did before. There is something about watching someone struggle to find the words that makes you realize just how precious words really are.

So, back to the jelly shoes.

I got my first pair when I was in North Dakota. I am not entirely sure what color they were, but I think they were clear. I left them in a hotel room. I feel like it was highly likely one of my birthday trips to Dickinson or Mandan.  I remember my dad saying that this is why we double-check every time we leave a hotel room.  Thankfully, many years later, I married a man who does multiple hotel-room sweeps before we leave. Nothing will be left behind on his watch.

Those jelly shoes then stirred up another memory—this one involving Dolly Parton.

At one point, my parents and I went on a road trip to California. I am sure we were headed to see family on my mom’s side, as I have had numerous family members living out there in the Bay Area over the years.  My dad asked to borrow my Uncle Phil’s car, and it was fancy. One of the smartest cars I had ever seen at the time. He also had it filled with some good music. I assume they were cassette tapes, because I was little, but I remember Dolly Parton being some of the music we listened to on that trip.

There is something about certain songs, smells, places, and even a $4 pair of jelly shoes that can take you right back.  As much as social media can be a bad thing, I have truly enjoyed seeing the impact Dolly Parton has had on the people who adored her. I can’t say I have seen one negative thing come out in the news. It seems like she was truly a genuine person who cared deeply about others and exuded sunshine.  Something we could all use a little more of these days.

So, I hope that on even the hardest days—which my family has certainly endured recently—you can pour yourself a cup of ambition and maybe do what Dolly would do.  Spread a little extra kindness. Spread a little cheer. And if the road you are on isn’t the one you want to be walking, maybe it is time to start paving another one.