marcoujor: A Train in the Rain

​This past Sunday, Adalyn Marie Couchara was baptized, surrounded by loving family and friends.

A steady and gentle rain fell in our neck of the woods this day. While not a meteorologist, I could have predicted this forecast.

Mom always told me that rain was a sign of good luck.  That notion had - and always will have- a powerful effect on me.

Sunday’s rain allowed me to escort Mom, at least in my mind, to the baptism.​

​As a hungry Couchara clan was heading from church to the luncheon, we were collectively detained by a train, a very long and slow train. I was propelled back to memories of my Dad working as an engineer for Reading Railroad.

Sunday’s train encounter, in the rain, reminded me that both of my parents were along for the ride to the Italian restaurant for Adalyn’s party.

I instantly smile now when an Italian meal is served without bread. I can remember the 'stink' (a Miss Sammie word) my Dad raised when we were invited to my brother Johnny's home and bread was not on the table.

There was bread on the tables at Adalyn’s luncheon, by the way!

Yet, this day was so much more than delicious food. This day was filled with the hope and promise of new life. This day was filled with joy, laughter and love across all generations - a perfect antidote for the negativity, trauma and sadness that saturates the news and social media.

Sunday evening I read through Mom’s journals to me and thought the following was worth sharing (again), this time for Adalyn Marie and any readers who may need a shot of Miss Sammie’s sage wisdom...

​“My wishes for you are the best of health always, happiness with whatever life bestows on you and true peace of mind.

“Whenever possible, always put away your cares and worries before retiring for the night. Leave your mind free preparing the body for its necessary sleep and rest. A new day will arrive with dawn.

“If possible, don't ever betray a friend's confidence. Once that trust is broken the friend loses faith in you. true friendship is forever gone. Some confidences should remain sleeping with you.

“You can never have enough knowledge and common sense. By mixing common sense with life's never ending source of knowledge, you form the basis for a well adjusted contented lifestyle.

“You can always do without excess baggage which comes in many forms, clutter of possessions crowding you; needless worries that may or may not even happen; and fair weather friends never there when needed.”

Adalyn Marie with Dad (Jared) and Mom (Jenne)

​Congratulations to my nephew, Jared, and his lovely wife, Jenne.  Addy is well loved and you are already some of the finest parents I know.

​This song has been playing in my mental soundtrack lately. Take a listen to this sweet classic...

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ShoutOuts

☙ The many meanings of the word ‘love’ via Martie’s Foyer

​☙ Winter Prep... Its a Coming via Fireside with Rolly

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Until next week, wishing you wonder and hope,

mar