It’s a Saturday morning and I woke up to the sound of my sister-in-law’s voice: I’m at my favorite Bed & Breakfast and there is peace, light, laughter and great coffee. It has no name other than “Dan & Carol’s”. It is the home of my brother and sister-in-law, Carol and it is a destination extraordinaire.

While B & B’s that cost hundreds of dollars a night with their plump pillows, down comforters, and soft 800 count Egyptian cotton sheets are amazing – this home in South Hadley has more. Through the years this home has been there for my family and I for spontaneous visits and holidays; for parties and times of joy; and for times where tears fell from the deepest places always followed by laughter from the heart.

It will not be here forever. Dan & Carol are looking at a move overseas and this B & B that holds so many memories will not be as ever available as it has felt in the past.

So I get up earlier than usual, determined to soak in as much as possible and savor every minute of an ancient dog, silent cat, and the love and presence of a unique couple.