My photo
No longer on the river and, again, an empty nester. Back to living on Fleming Island and making some more friends!

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Love love love 4 Rivers!

This morning started by stopping---yes, I crept along the way to Victory heading for Bible study. If I had noticed the stop/go traffic on the overpass I might have changed my mind about getting onto the freeway, but I didn't, so I did! Since the terrible fiery crash a few months ago that took the life of a Navy family, I am reluctant to use the phone when driving to Bible study. This change has caused my mother a bit of upset because she scheduled her Thursday for my phone call. Now I call later in the day and she has to squeeze me into her full schedule. It stinks to be 90 and in such demand!

Once the backed-up traffic got to the first exit on the east/south end of the bridge, it cleared up for the rest of us going toward the Beach. Subconsciously I had gripped my steering wheel so tightly that I had to make the effort to let go. I really must be getting old, or else I am still somewhat shell-shocked after that terrible accident. I don't know if I mentioned this before, but my friend, Nancy, was out walking along the river and believe she heard the accident, or its after effects. The sound of metal scrapping and the explosion of the turned-over car. Makes me sick yet just thinking about it.

Class was again exceptional, as expected. What makes it so interesting is that our group is not limited in our discussions to the topic at hand. If someone has a personal story to bring up, an article to discuss, or if Pastor has something to share (he has the best experiences with people), we talk about it. And it eventually does fit into the portion of Isaiah we are presently discussing. This week is Isaiah 48 where the Savior was introduced. Pastor does not violate anyone's privacy, of course, but will share stories of phone calls he's gotten, or something a preschool parent has said to him. He is so good at his job, that's for sure.

Justin has had some long days since 'summer' began, and today was one of those, expected to have been cut short by rain that never came. He came running into the house shortly after The Five got done and stood in my door way, excited. He wanted to go to 4 Rivers for dinner so I grabbed my shoes and purse. Of course he had to shower first which he did amazingly fast. He had arranged to meet his boss/friend, William, there, who was the man who introduced Justin to 4 Rivers. When his wife and he lived in the Orlando area, they found this chain, and then took Justin with them to the store on the Southside. And now we have one of our own, just north of Wells Road. 

We arrived before Will did so waited around outside for him. I had a card for a free sandwich so I used that for my meal, a brisket sandwich. I was greeted by several of the staff members (already they know me!). Justin laughingly told William that this is normal and he was fine with it. I believe it helps to form 'relationships' with the staff to ensure quality care and this has occurred. They even go to refill my soda for me which I appreciate, when they ask if we need anything. I am a big fan of good customers and excellent customer service!  

Since I had the sandwich tonight, I managed to eat all the meat which I had dumped off the bun. The meal came with two sides, both mac 'n cheese, which allows me two meals another time. My standard order comes with three sides so I ordinarily take the green beans plus my mac 'n cheese. Justin was surprised I had eaten all the meat but he had some leftover to bring home with us, plus a part of his side order. He absolutely loves their biscuits, giant ones, so gets one of those as a 'side' dish. They provide plastic covers for the side containers, self-service, plus bags for putting everything into for the trip home. Such a good value for the money, and a lovely time spent with William this evening. Justin is blessed to work for such a nice guy. We are rarely ever without something to talk about. Seems like all day was talk talk talk!