"Because of you I will always go to Memphis"

I took my first trip away from the kids last weekend. Previously, I had spent one night away from Miles, once. Anne and I ventured south to visit our dear friends who have been enduring just about everything the world can dump on a family lately. We weren't sure exactly where they were, or where we'd be staying. But, we had reason to believe we all would be received. ;-)

Guy hauling an ark in TN. Like you do. 

Veronica is my Starbucks name. 

Melissa took us out for brunch at Bronte's, the cutest literary cafe in a bookstore!

And afterward, we checked out House of Mews, a whimsical cat shelter that really resembles a cat bed and breakfast. Those are some happy & well-loved strays!

Next, we hit up Stax Records, and the museum commemorating Memphis motown/soul. Artists who recorded with Stax include Al Green, Sam & Dave, Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Isaac Hayes, and countless others.

Tribute to the one-room church gospel roots of the sound.

Carla Thomas' dress was among the relics.

How many museums have disco dance floors? How many??

Melissa cuts loose.

Baby's first disco

Nod to Dr. King and the effects of his death.

Wandered through the studio to see an actual recording going on! There's a music academy for local kids next door. 

Isaac Hayes' car.

Please excuse the poor quality of my ipod touch snapshots. Please also excuse the fact I may not be blogging for a couple weeks. We are moving, you see, and everything is in chaos and confusion. On Monday we do most of the moving, and then next Friday the 5th we're planning to leave for a 1-month sojourn to NY and MD. We'll be with Leah, with Dad, with Grandparents, and visiting all sorts of beloveds. Please keep us all in your prayers, especially our friends the Hatchers, who are in mourning.

Into your hands, O God, we commend ourselves and all for whom we pray, trusting in your abundant mercy, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.