We had good conversations and lots of laughs in Bigmomma’s  1972 Chevy Impala.  The car didn’t have air. On hot summer days, we would pile in the car for a ride to the grocery store. Her favorite treat was  Butter Pecan ice cream.  

There was always a neighbor,  friend or relative in the ice cream aisle. I remember listening to many adult conversations in the ice cream aisle. The rhythm of their words would fall on my ears. Their words put me in a relaxed state.

Every morning after a relaxing night of sleep, Big momma cooked breakfast.  She served eggs, bacon and toast. We were allowed a sip of coffee. She used the coffee grinds to read our fortunes.   It is kinda like reading tea leaves. Morning breakfast was full of good conversation. We talked about the past, present and future. I remember her telling us why she fell in love with granddaddy.  It was his shoes.  She said his shoes were shiny and black.

During the mornings we talked in great detail about the day. Where we would go. Who we would visit. What we would wear, especially on Sundays. Sunday was church day. My grandmother’s conversation with her friends before and after church service was fascinating. Listening to their conversations and listening to the pastor’s  words left me feeling full and satisfied. Except for my longing to know my gift and talents.

Growing up my sisters and cousins all had apparent gifts. They could draw, dance, sing and or play an instrument. I could not and cannot draw. I had zero rhythm as a child. Now I have a decent amount. I can hold my own on the dance floor. Musical instruments, I still can’t play any. 

During summer visits with my grandmother, I would tell her, I don’t have any gifts or talents. She told me everyone does. Pray and God will reveal them to you. At that time, I was about ten or eleven so I did exactly what she said.  I prayed.