Life's only constant is change, for better or worse, so we can only hope it's mostly for the best. Thankfully, that was the case two weeks ago for my family, and with the chance meeting of new friends.
My wonderful husband, Adam, and I celebrated another wedding anniversary. I’m so happy he made it through another year of putting up with me!
We also celebrated our oldest child’s 20th birthday. Blaise has grown into a wonderful young man; we're so proud of him. He has the same "old soul" gene as me. While his peers are busy partying and doing Lord knows what, he has graduated college and begun a career he thoroughly enjoys.
Really, what more could you ask for?
Well, during our celebration, he announced he is ready to look for a place of his own — near his loving parents, of course — and that he and his long-time girlfriend, Tiffany, have started discussing marriage. That they decided to live near us, in beautiful Laurel Hill, with no persuasion from me, made me that much more elated.
Even more change was in the air. While showing Tiffany around our town, I stopped at the old Hobo Video to investigate signs of a new business. There, I had the pleasure of meeting Mark and Kelly Bartsch, who opened Computer Plus just more than a month ago. They offer fair and very reasonably priced PC repair and recycling.
Now, I know nothing of computer science. I have to drive to Crestview if I have a tech issue.
The store’s slogan is “We’re here to help,” and they back their claim with free consultations and diagnostics.
The Bartsches have already made a big difference for one Laurel Hill School elementary class by donating a Linux computer with specialized learning programs.
In addition, while visiting the store, I overheard Mark suggest a more affordable service to another customer. I asked about this and he simply said, “He didn’t need all that. I’m not going to suggest or overcharge someone (for) something that isn’t needed. We’re in the business because we both like computers and we want to help the community, not get rich.”
I was surprised and impressed by his compassion.
Yes, life is full of change, but our family is staying together in beautiful Laurel Hill, and we have made new friends in this peaceful town.
Really, what more could you ask for?
Amber Kelley lives in Laurel Hill. Send news or comments to Hobo.homefront@gmail.com or P.O. Box 163, Laurel Hill, FL, 32567.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HOBO HOMEFRONT: Our family's staying together, supporting Laurel Hill businesses