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Where it all began
Pawpaw David and Granny Bobbie owned Keller's Store for many years, and my parents would often take me there as a child. I loved going to see my god family. They were fun and loving, and they treated me more like a grandchild than a godchild. I remember kissing my Pawpaw David's tobacco filled cheek and giving him hugs, and in return, receiving my pick of any candy on the candy isle. Granny Bobbie was always laughing and making jokes. Needless to say, there are still giggles ringing off the walls of the store to this day. The old cola cooler and Coke in a bottle, ice cream sandwiches, deli sliced bologna and hoop cheese, and the old rocking chair which never moved from its place - those memories are more tangible than a dream and almost too good to be true. At the tender age of 2, Rhonda and Robin taught me how to "boogie woogie". From there, they taught me the chicken dance. Each time a new customer walked into the store, the show would begin. First, the "boogie woogie" dance on top of the cola cooler. Then, off to the chicken dance down the isles of the store. Lastly, a song for the customer's departure ended the show. This was my first experience with performance. I suppose it stuck. I have so many recollections of my days with my god family. Though the years have changed me into an adult, there is still part of me who will always be the little girl doing the chicken dance for gas station customers. God has been gracious by allowing my memories to return me to my childhood; a time where trust was given and not earned and love was a gift I was eager to bestow on anyone who was willing to receive. It makes me understand why we have to become children to love God fully. I believe even God got a chuckle from the "boogie woogie chicken dance."
Autumn Mott Calvert grew up in Thomasville. Today she lives in the Huntsville area.
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