The Flowchart of Memory

Whenever I am out and about and happen to pass a Weeping Willow tree, I recall a specific childhood memory. My Pap-pa (pronounced papaw) sold and delivered propane. I visited him as a child for a week each summer, and we would often be up and out for deliveries in the early morning. I sometimes rode in the back of his pickup, and can remember the goosebumps on my skin from the cool morning air. Pap-pa knew everyone personally in his very rural area, and he was a talker. He jawed away with everyone, never in a hurry. I remember one beautiful setting where there was a large weeping willow tree. It’s branches reached all the way to the ground and all the way around. I’d move the branches aside like a beaded curtain and play inside. As a child it was a magical place where my mind could take me to all sorts of pretend places….a forest hideaway, a castle. It made me feel cozy and safe. This small moment leads me to others about my love for and time spent with my Pap-pa. What small moments are forever with you?