Three Oaks

Earlier this year (2015), I was able to go to my hometown of Avon Park, Florida. I parked the semi at the yard in Lakeland, and hitched a ride to a car rental place. Hertz was the one that gave me a car, a Chevy Spark. It was a really small car, but served its purpose while I was in Florida. The first day of having the car I didn't go anywhere except to grab a bite to eat somewhere, as it took all day to get a ride and to find a car rental place to rent me a car.



The second day I got up super early and went to Universal Studios in Orlando. I bought a ticket at one of the souvenir/tourist stores along I-75 before I finished running a load to Tampa. The ticket cost me, if I remember...$110. I definitely was way over dressed for Florida. I was wearing my usual Western garb...full cowboy regalia(hat, button down shirt, black jeans w/big belt buckle and of course my Justin Ropers). I was sweating like a pig the whole day due to all the humidity and my overdressing. I had fun though, seeing all the attractions. I haven't been there in over twenty years.

Third day I headed down to Avon Park. I had this "I'm finally home" feeling, but was sad because I knew I wasn't able to stay. My whole Florida trip was like that...lonely too. Anyways, I drove all around Avon Park seeing what changed and what didn't. As small towns go, nothing really changed. Only some face lifts on some buildings and more churches. While other buildings were gone, including my childhood house on Viola St.

Even though I had me some boiled peanuts and a Dr. Pepper for nostalgia sake. I went into the Wendy's and had a burger. When I pulled in I was oh so happy that they didn't cut down the three Oak trees that are behind the restaurant. In my youth, I would go to Wendy's on my bike and sit under them. The Oaks always welcomed me, making me feel at ease from my abusive step dad. I would sit under them for hours! Nobody ever payed me any mind. Which is good because it would've ruined the whole experience.
Twenty years later I sat under those same Oaks with Spanish Moss waving in the breeze. I truly felt as if I was in Heaven. The Oaks like years past welcomed me. The seemed excited to see me, as I was with them. I touched and talked to each one with a tear or two rolling down my cheek. I'm tearing up now just remembering the Love the Oaks gave me. Not only when I was a  child, but as an adult. They are very comforting. I sat under them as long as I could. Knowing I am most likely not going to see them again.
On the way back to Lakeland I had a very heavy feeling in my heart. I had to leave the next day...heading back West towards California. I miss those Oaks and my hometown. However, under current circumstances I'm unable to return to the place that feels like home. One day hopefully, but not now. I took a photo of the Three Oaks so I can always see them, and remember...