Long before modern technology, family and friends gathered on the porch enjoying the cool evening breeze, to unwind, swap stories, sing and provide words of wisdom and encouragement.

My childhood was enjoyed in south Louisiana, out in the country, 10 miles south of the nearest town and 10 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico as the hurricane flies. I have very fond memories of sitting on our screen porch in the evening watching fireflies twinkling in our yard. Looking up at the stars that appeared to be near enough to reach out and touch.

The air was filled with the scents of jasmine and honeysuckle. The sounds of crickets, katydids, frogs calling for rain filled the air. We lived a simple life filled with love, laughter and appreciation for all God provided.

Sitting on the porch provided families and friends the opportunity to build closer relationships through sharing insights, encouragement, emotional, physical and spiritual support. It was an intergenerational experience, grandparents, parents, children, aunts, uncles, cousins and family friends all sat talking and sharing their experiences.

Family stories were passed down from one generation to the next, history was shared, a sense of belonging and having roots was developed. Stories of trials and tests and faith were shared telling how they made it through. Grandparents married over 50 years , shared what it took to build and sustain a marriage and a family during good times and difficult times.

Folks who have never experienced sitting on the porch in the cool of the evening have no idea what they have missed. Welcome to the porch, please take a seat, everyone is welcome to come and sit. Here we wish to share words of encouragement and insight that will hopefully brighten your day.