On June 8, 2022, 25 Trinitarians met at the Trinity parking lot at 7 pm, boarded vans, and anticipated the swarming for the fireflies (viewing the Synchronus fireflies was the plan for the evening.)

We were delayed by four wrecks on Interstate 40 for an hour and a half. During that time we did get to know our van-mates!

Steve Woody took charge and persuaded several 18-wheelers to let us pass at the exit to Highway 209. Then he and Mary Bruce led us to their family cabin which had been built in 1955 of beams from barns in the Cataloochee Valley. What a cozy atmosphere!

Mary Bruce spontaneously and graciously opend the door to delicious desserts including butterscotch pudding, chocolate mousse, and snickersoodles. A detour from the fireflies led to contented conversations. As raindrops began to hit the room peals of laughter rang.

Riding home through the rain at midnight, we were aglow with the Woody's hospitality in place of the light of fireflies. Grateful that God always has a plan when you are open to receive it.

Cheryl Paben