Thoughts from Barbara

Folks here on the sporting plantation have been very warm and welcoming to me since I've arrived here. Folks like Barbara.

Barbara heard about my redecorating project in the house and kindly dropped off her renovation book she used for her newly reconstructed apartment in New York City. As a result, I created my own redecorating book -- collections of paint samples in the front pocket; photographic scenes of living rooms, kitchens, dining rooms from magazines under the first tab; appealing color schemes under the second; different types of chairs for purchase under the third; rugs under the fourth; and patio furniture at the end. Seeing her book was so helpful and inspiring: I love having created a "vision book" to tie together all the ideas in my head.

Yesterday I called Barbara to reply to an invitation for a party she's hosting for her daughter and grandchildren this weekend. Should be fun! "My husband and I will come," I said and continued, "By the way, I'm still getting used to that term 'my husband'." She laughed and assured me that I had years ahead to get used to it.

We spent a few more moments talking about my transition from New York to down here in the Low Country and she said to me, kind of Zenlike, "Remember, you are not the person you used to be."

Yes, I'm no longer simply Leslie, or Miss Leslie or "Miss Lellie". I'm now Mrs. Thorne...and still getting my arms around what that means. There is only one thing that I do know...I love being Mrs. Thorne. :o)