A day in Knoxville

Tonight I had dinner with Eric & Cheryl. They were high school sweethearts who lost each other for 10 years, married other people, and have now been married for 20 years. It was awesome to see the two of them have such a great connection and understanding for each other and laugh and enjoy each other’s company as much as they do. They might possibly be the funniest people I have ever met so here are just a few stories from the night:

• Cheryl made Eric apologize for leaving a “stinky” in the bathroom.
• Cheryl thought it was odd that I thought it was odd that she dresses like an elf for Christmas. And it was not for a company Christmas party or for the enjoyment for little kids to see… she just does it.
• Eric explained “you know you are a hillbilly when…” jokes perfectly. I did not know that people owned up to being hillbillies and supported those jokes entirely while being able to even expand on them.• Cheryl’s step father is also her brother in law. Eric’s brother is also his father in law. Yes, the family trees grow in circles around here.
• Eric wore shorts that I think are illegal in all other 49 states, but for some reason seemed well loved in his household.
• Texting and sleeping are 2 things not allowed during movies. Eric will constantly pause the movie until I was done texting or Cheryl would throw water bottles at me until I opened my eyes. And no, taking allergy medicine before a movie is not a good excuse for falling asleep.


They openly discussed hard times in their lives and marriage and made an impact on me as they shared freely. I hope to see them again someday. Thank you Kristi for sharing your Tennessee parents (but you can have them back) :)

Kristi and I spent the rest of the night walking downtown where the first thing I noticed was a homeless man. I wanted to go and sit down next to him as soon as I saw him but since Kristi did not know about my passion and love towards them I did not want to freak her out until I warned her. I sent a message to Justin telling him how sad I was and how affected I was by seeing homeless people all over and he sent a message back saying “Help one in the name of God”; however, when I went back the man was gone. I hope I have another chance. I’m so glad that my passion for others is back.