It's been said that life is stranger than fiction.
We come across characters in our day to day encounters that add love, joy, and humor to our lives.
This series of musings is about those very characters.
It is only fitting that the leader of our character parade is Miss Lonnie.
Miss Lonnie is one of those rare jewels in the crown of existence that makes each day extraordinary.
A true southern lady, Miss Lonnie has been a treasure to this small coastal community for more than 30 years.
Her sweet smile and slow southern drawl greet all those she meets.
Her sweet smile and slow southern drawl greet all those she meets.
Don't misunderstand, this is not a southern twang but a slow, melodic drawl.
Miss Lonnie lived many years in a spectaclar antebellum home surrounded by lush gardens bedecked with birdbaths and statuary.
With nearly an acre of land she propogated a cornucopia of flowers and shrubs shaded by ancient oaks. Having lived in town for many years Miss Lonnie doesn't own a car, she walks whereever she needs to go and is a frequent guest at many of the shops. Her visits consist of smiles and laughter as she shares her stories and inquires as to the latest events in the lives of her hosts. Although a petite, delicate creature she has spunk the size of Texas often attending review board meetings to defend a tree in danger of being taken down or reiterating the need to preserve even the most modest of historic structures. She is not afraid to speak her mind and stand firm for what is right.
Of course, over the years her home and gardens began to show signs of age and so did Miss Lonnie. Her ability to maintain such a large abode and elaborate gardens diminished.
Of course, over the years her home and gardens began to show signs of age and so did Miss Lonnie. Her ability to maintain such a large abode and elaborate gardens diminished.
Downsizing to a nearby townhome was her only option. Never once did she show signs of sorrow over leaving her home nor did she speak a word of despair, only expressing favored memories and the upcoming pleasure of living a lower maintenance lifestyle. Interestingly living in a townhome did not slow Miss Lonnie down. Her daily walks and visits to town continued. But what happens to an avid gardener when the only land available is the parking space out back? Hmmm...the only logical thing to do-make it into a garden! After all she hasn't owned a car in nearly 30 years!
Yup, she created a beautiful above ground garden in the parking space alotted to her townhome. The garden includes sculptured shrubs, flowers, birdbaths, bistro table and chairs, garden bench, and statuary. Miss Lonnie's parking lot garden brings pleasure to all who pass by on the quiet garden path that runs behind the assemblage of townhomes. If you should happen to pass by when Miss Lonnie is outside you will receive a warm greeting and an invite to sit amoungst the fragrant flowers and share a few moments over a glass of tea with the infamous and sweet Miss Lonnie.
Come back soon to meet the next character in the parade:).
