Barbeque on the Bluff

Like most people, my life with my husband and adult children has been altered since the pandemic began. Our time has been “reordered”, and the change is often unsettling and difficult.

One thing that is definitely different is the way we celebrate summer holidays. Gone are the pool parties, neighborhood gatherings, and firework shows. The Fourth of July will most likely be a quiet family affair at our house.

My husband knew that I was missing the “regular” events associated with warm weather and proposed that we head to the river (that is the Mississippi River) which is about thirty miles from my house to have a picnic by ourselves.

Having a simple meal while sitting on the banks of the river sounded wonderful to me. It is hard to be wishing for more when the sun is out, and the air is fresh.

Being in Memphis, barbeque is my idea of perfect picnic food. Smoky, tangy pork sandwiches with beans and slaw made a perfect meal. The two of us ate, relaxed and watched the swift moving water of the Mississippi River. The time together helped me see the opportunities that are presented in this slow season of our lives.

So, am I missing all the fun parties of previous years? Yes, but I’ve made a decision. In our crazy world, I’m also going to pass the sweet tea and count my blessings because being together with family, however small, is the best part of celebrating any day.