A Valdosta Birthday Surprise

Sunset above the clouds in Georgia
Sunset above the clouds in Georgia
The marquis reads, "The Hallelujah Girls."
“The Hallelujah Girls”

When your husband knows how much celebrating family and friends projects and joys means, he offered a solution to combine a few of our favorite things. A friend, Joe, celebrated his birthday and debuted in a community theater play. To support him, we discussed sending a flower arrangement to help him remain excited. Peter saw an opportunity for us to enjoy a weekend getaway and surprise our friend. He threw out the idea to go in person. The notion thrilled me, and we began the travel plans.

First, a serene afternoon flight to Valdosta, Ga (Thanks, Delta!), and a quick rental car pick up from Avis. We checked in at our hotel and prepared for the weekend’s fun. Saturday morning, we jumped up, enjoyed breakfast, and then drove around town to see a few of the sights and scouted where we we going for the show.

Second, we returned to the hotel, The Drury Inn, and changed into our attire for the night. Ensuring flowers, birthday presents, and tickets were in hand, we set off for the surprise. With fantastic weather, we took a few moments to capture a few pictures of the entrance to the theater. While we hung out waiting for the doors to open, the birthday fella arrived with his daughter. He was indeed surprised we journeyed from North Carolina just for his debut. Mission Accomplished.

Third, the show was hilarious and fun. Joe did a wonderful job along with his castmates. After the show, we planned to grab breakfast before we headed back to the airport at Denny’s with his girlfriend. Wonderful fellowship and conversation rounded out the morning before our afternoon flight. Hopefully, we can come back if he decides to continue in his dramatic endeavor.

Finally, Peter and I returned the rental and prepared for the afternoon flight which was announced as delayed. The delay pushed passed our connecting flight, so with a few adjustments we booked a later flight and dined at the Atlanta airport at Iron Chef Cat Cora’s Kitchen restaurant – perfect after a long day of travel. We boarded our flight and ordered a Lyft car to drive us home. All and all, we embraced the moment and enjoyed the weekend.

Hallelujah Girls flyer
Hallelujah Girls flyer
Peter, Joe, and Carmen
Peter, Joe, and Carmen
Carmen pauses to take in the scene before the play begins.
Oh, What a lovely Saturday afternoon. We should take in a show!

Valentine’s 2024

Beaming with Love

February 14th, 2024. 

The Baylies stepped out of the town and journeyed to Carrboro, NC. The Cheese Shop hosted this very posh event in this quaint town. Peter and I indulged as we learned of new cheeses and wines. The hosts delighted us with information regarding the featured menu, and their passion for their craft was displayed beautifully. 

Peter and I celebrated five Valentine’s dates; one has a boyfriend and girlfriend. Although we try not to take for granted any time we dine together, setting aside special moments to reflect helps us stay connected. I am reminded that anything is possible when you exercise your faith. I am loved and love all the blessings I have. 

That is a tasty plate!

2024 Summer Schedule Release: DMB

I received a notification that The Dave Matthews Band released their tour dates for the Summer of 2024. I scanned the city listings to see if Raleigh, NC, made the list, and it did!!!! My excitement level expanded. 

Last year, the band skipped the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, and I felt somewhat deflated. My darling husband, Peter, offered an idea that brought the light back to me. He suggested we could travel to another city on the tour and have fun. I hoped we could check off a bucket list venue and get tickets to the Gorge Amphitheater over Labor Day weekend. He smiled and said, “I thought you might say that. ” Then he purchased tickets to at least one of the days. Astounded, I set my travel planner in motion, and we prepared to travel to the state of Washington. 

The trip was phenomenal. However, the realities of my grief still plagued me as I lost a friend, Edrick McLaughlin, the week before the trip. With interesting symmetry, the musician Jimmy Buffett passed that weekend of the concert, and Dave Matthews worked through his grief on stage, which helped me grieve and release. 

We only attended one day of the three-day concert, but it was what my soul required. So, fast-forward to planning this year. I am torn between returning to The Gorge and participating in all three days or making the Raleigh concert a real treat. Stay tuned for developments. In the meantime, enjoy the pictures from our Labor “Dave” 2023 experience. (Stay a while!)

St. Patrick’s Day: Reflect on the Blessings

Blessed in Green

March 17th, 2022, a touch of green brightens my outfit. I mused lightly on things I am lucky to be a part of joining. As I pondered over memories and choices, I realized it is not luck but the abundance of blessings as I honor my faith journey. Lesson eternally learned: Although the struggle is real. Prayers Delayed, not Denied.