jour·nal a record of experiences, ideas, or reflections kept regularly for private use. (Merriam-Webster definition 1c)
On the afternoon of my last full day at Dairy Hollow, I opened the middle section of an antique bookcase to reveal a drop-down desk. Inside, I found journals provided to guests when the property was a bed-and-breakfast. For an hour (or more) I became lost in the entries dated 1988-1995. Hundreds of thoughts and reflections, along with detailed sketches and poems.
The stories were similar. This peaceful spot in the Ozarks affected each guest in the same manner. People were drawn from across the country, all with different circumstances–newlyweds, lost souls, stressed out families. Some folks were simply passing through. Each with different issues and lives, all leaving with a common bond.
Connecting randomly selected sentences from five journals–a letter to Dairy Hollow…
Dear Dairy Hollow—
My bride and I arrived late on January 4 all decked out in glorious wedding attire. She was beautiful… I didn’t know a woman could change so much from one night to the next morning! Just kidding! (1992). This can’t be real life…we have stepped into the pages of a storybook and like Goldilocks, everything was “just right.” (1988)
I have traveled many miles visiting hundreds of inns…fine, stately mansions with exquisite furnishings….others are cute little places. Each is a reflection of the innkeeper’s soul. Some have no soul…Dairy Hollow stands out…there is a mystical quality. (1990) Our last night in particular I felt and understood the power of this place. (1993)
This has been a pleasant way to start a life together. (1991) No phones, no television. It is so sweet to remember how less is always more. (1988) We love this place. (1995)
Home Sweet Home (1988)
Love…
talya
“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”
― Roald Dahl
Very interesting. So glad you found that treasure. Did you leave an entry in the Storybook Journal? OR, was it just for travelers staying at the bed and breakfast? Barbara
I left some red and yellow leaves between the pages.
This is great Talya! Very clever spin on the treasures you happened upon …
Thanks Kathy. A creative writing assignment of sorts:)
What a great way to wind up your week!
It was a nice ending…
thanks,,great read,,,i love journals,,,great to write down thoughts,happening, kids and grands…wonderful…keep up your good writings ..love them all… there is peace and quiteness in Arkansas.those special places of the heart…thanks again,love gail
Thanks Linda Gail:)
Another winner, as if we ever get tired of good, thought-provoking writing. Love the journal entries and that’s an awesome quote at the end.
Awesome read, Talya! Journals are like time capsules for us and others to read and share the snap-shot thoughts and emotions of the writer. Your blog is amazing in how well it is written and how well it brings up great memories from the past. Also, great choices for the musical pairing (Boston is my all-time favorite band), and quote!