On my long three-day drive to Dora, Alabama to visit Edie Hand, to my surprise, I never got lost! The ride went smoothly and it was as if I had driven this route many times in my life. I can't explain it. I knew this was a wonderful sign that my first in-person conversation with Edie would be amazing. I had many questions for Edie. Although I’d never met her in person, we had shared several long conversations over the phone. I arrived on Monday evening and I parked my car by a beautiful
colonial brick house. I rang the bell with great curiosity and gratitude!
Edie answered the door with a big smile.
Hi, Lana! Welcome! You made it!
Edie was lovely and gracious just as I knew she would be.
I just got home from my speaking event at the local church and the girls sent some delicious food as well as desert. Come in. It is so great meeting you in person! Wow! That must have been a long drive from San Francisco. This is going to be an eventful week of bittersweet memories with your interview and my documentary filming.
I noticed decorations strewn about her home. It was like Christmas! I still have Christmas decorations because we’re filming “The Last Ride” on Saturday.
You'll enjoy watching it happen behind the scenes and meeting my talented family and friends.
How was your ride?
SK: Edie, my ride was great. Thank you so much for inviting me to visit you and stay with you.
I couldn't wait to tell her how much I enjoyed her writing. I had received Edie's novel as a gift from our mutual friend, Esther Goodhart, in 2012.
SK: I absolutely love your book "Women of True Grit." I have many questions for you.
We sat down and began discussing Edie's novella, The Last Christmas Ride, and her Grandmother Alice. Edie and I have a connection in that we've both had wonderful grandmothers that inspired us beyond our imaginations. We both love sharing their pearls of wisdom.