We are Sam and Kim Wilkins, and we are retired full time RVers in search of 70-degree weather. Our home is now a 42-foot fifth wheel.
We sold our home and most of our belongings in order to see what this great United States has to offer by way of beautiful scenery. Along the way we have met some of the nicest people.
This has been one very busy month! We attended three family reunions. First was Sam’s mother’s family, the Foltz family reunion, in Timberville at his cousin’s farm, Paul Foltz and The Saddle Doctor. Next was his father’s family, the Wilkins reunion in Lost River State Park in the Rec Hall as the upper shelter was unavailable due to a new campground being constructed. Sam has one uncle left on his father’s side but no aunts or uncles on his mom’s. The last one was my father’s family, the Brady reunion, in Gilmer County WV held at my grandparents’ old log cabin. Coming home I took a picture of the amazing WV mountains. I have no aunts or uncles on my father’s side and only one aunt on my mom’s. We are quickly becoming the next generation. All were well attended, and it is always very good to see everyone. The food isn’t bad either. Reunions are becoming a thing of the past, but I hope this tradition continues in this family for a long time.
Our friends, Jim and Charlene from PA, camped at Lost River Campground for a week and we visited Blackwater Falls and showed them some of the beautiful WV hills. Another couple, Ken and Joan, from NC stopped in for a few nights on their way to Philadelphia PA. We took them on a tour of Lost River State Park and then Trout Pond. We love showing off this lovely state, Almost Heaven.
We had a surprise visitor. An old Army buddy of Sam’s from his reserve years stopped by. Sam was so very happy to do some catching up and to hug his friend after so many years.
The Halt Foundation was represented at the Rockingham County Fair last week and, as a board member, it was a pleasure to be a representative and tell the folks about the miracles horses can bring into the lives of those dealing with mental health issues. We shared our area with Willow Haven Farm Sanctuary horse rescue.
I had the pleasure of having dinner with two of my oldest friends, Barbara and Donna. We enjoy any opportunity to fellowship, lift each other up and celebrate together. You cannot have too many friends.
Is it the fact that the older we get the more prayer concerns come before us? It is for me. As I prepare this article my brother is in surgery. My great niece is fighting for her newborn little life with a heart defect. My grandson is finishing his last and final treatment. Another family member is dealing with sickness. I plan to visit my sister, Dawn, next week. Your prayers are so very greatly appreciated! Quality time with loved ones becomes even more important with age. Make the effort every day! Reach out with a phone call, a card or even a visit. Tomorrow is not promised. Don’t miss any opportunity to say, “I Love You”!
Blessings until next time!
Kim
