Those of us who have families living in the midwest were given quite a fright in May.
Two sons, Gary and Edward, live in tornado areas as well as our grandchildren and their families. We were able to talk with Gary by cell as he was racing to his home in Edmond, Okla. He told us, “It was so dark reaching the ranch from a tornado overhead, I could hardly find the barn.”
The home’s shelter is beneath the center floor inside the barn. Later we learned the tornado had touched down about half mile away, and sadly one family lost everything, including children.
Edward, who lives in Del City, Okla., called my husband Don about 90 minutes after the first tornadoes struck. He had gathered his wife, dogs, his musical instruments, and put everything in the trailer and was ready to leave the area as quickly as possible. By then I was tracking the tornadoes online through the Oklahoma a weather station radar. Hours later Edward told us they had returned home and were preparing to leave again, expecting more tornadoes and fierce winds. In a few days we had heard from all eight families, with several reporting some narrow misses in their areas, but all OK.
Last month I mentioned “The Cup of Joy.” a wonderful little café in Hansville. This month Don and I visited the Cuppa Bella in down town Kingston.
If you haven’t stopped by lately, the new owners are Marcus, and Tanya Croman, who took over last September.
The names given the grilled sandwiches, like Jefferson Point, Apple Tree Cove, Miller Bay and Village Green, are quite a kick. If you would like a more ordinary sandwich, just ask for it. Tanya says “we aim to please.” There are special coffees, or regular, and smoothies, as well as other soft drinks. I found a variety of items to choose from, and the menu has an inviting lunch special of a half sandwich and cup of soup. You will also find fresh baked bagels and other goodies.
You may remember reading about this family’s recent hardships. They lost their home in a fire off the Hansville Road. You may also remember reading about the young couple feeding the hungry from their ambulance, which was also the Cromans. And now I hear our granddaughter Tenille Schwan is joining their staff too. Now how cool is that?
I think I’m beginning to sound a bit like Sammy Quinn, who wrote her vignettes on eating establishments in our community paper for many years. Quinn knew all the good spots. I used to call her “Kingston’s Queen Bee.” She just flittered here and there until her last days.
I also want to congratulate great-granddaughter, Sophia Chiquiti on graduating from Kingston High on June 11. It was a proud and exciting day for the entire family who wish Sophia every success in her future education, and endeavors. The sparkling smile and light in her eyes was a beautiful sight to behold. We love you Sophia.
Redeemer United Methodist Church will hold its annual rummage sale July 22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and July 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Take Parcells Road to 9900 Shorty Campbell Road. For information call (360) 638-2644. The sale benefits the community and the church.
