We stopped for a visit with our dear friends, Jeff and Karen Whalen. Some readers may remember the devastating flood that wiped out their neighborhood a few years ago, so it was terrific to see them back in their rebuilt home. They have an outdoor room with TV and bar, which made for a covid-safe afternoon of football, beer, and mimosas (drinks and trees!).
Three of their five sons dropped by throughout the day and we even got to meet their grandchild and two of their daughters-in-law!
Joe and Jeff are like two peas in a pod. Their upbeat outlook on life is contagious and they both have dedicated their lives to education. Thousands of students and their families have been positively impacted by these two men.
Molly was enchanted with their huge backyard and 18-month old retriever Coco enticed her to play tag. We haven’t seen Molly run and play like that for years! She slept well on Saturday night!
We reluctantly rolled out of their driveway to continue our trek. We look forward to a longer visit next time, post-pandemic.
GEOQUIZ: Where do the Whalens reside?
For new followers, we post occasional GeoQuiz questions. Readers are invited to answer in the comments (we trust that you will not use unfair advantages like Google Searches and will simply rely on your own brain power!) You do not need to be the first correct answer – all correct answers will be tallied and sometimes we even mail prizes!
Where in the world are the Gills? 
Hi! You were visiting the Whalens on Burwell Lane in Columbia SC (we are also big fans of the Whalens especially Karen and Coco). My husband and I drove by as you all were saying Adios and we coveted your cross country adventure in Cornelia. Im excited to follow your travels and plan our future retirement dreams with yours adventures as a model. Enjoy your next leg of the trip!
Great to meet you! We love your neighborhood!